Navajo Sterling Silver Turquoise Necklace Value Guide

This mid-century Navajo necklace represents a pivotal era of Native American silversmithing, blending traditional sacred turquoise with refined 1940-1960 techniques. Its combination of hand-wrought sterling silver beads and a central turquoise pendant makes it a quintessential example of Southwestern heritage art.

What affects the value of Navajo Sterling Silver Turquoise Necklace?

• The quality and origin of the turquoise stone, including its color stability and lack of stabilization treatments.
• Overall weight and craftsmanship of the sterling silver beads and the complexity of the central pendant design.
• Physical condition of the piece, specifically the integrity of the silver wire or cord used for stringing.
• Historical provenance and the presence of specific artisan stamps if the piece is a known maker's work.

How to Identify Navajo Sterling Silver Turquoise Necklace?

• Examine the turquoise for natural matrix patterns and signs of authentic age-related patina on the silver.
• Look for hand-stamped patterns or slight irregularities in the sterling silver beads indicative of mid-century bench-made construction.
• Check for the absence of modern hallmarks, as many Navajo pieces from the 1940s-1960s were unsigned or marked only with 'Sterling'.
• Verify the construction of the pendant setting, typically featuring a sawtooth or plain bezel characteristic of the era.

History of Navajo Sterling Silver Turquoise Necklace

Navajo jewelry, particularly pieces featuring turquoise and silver, has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. The Navajo people learned silversmithing from Mexican artisans and quickly developed their unique style, incorporating natural elements like turquoise, which they consider a sacred stone. Early pieces were often simple, but as techniques evolved, so did the complexity and artistry, leading to iconic designs like the squash blossom and beaded necklaces, many of which are still highly prized today.