Turquoise Pendant Value Guide

This mid-century sterling silver pendant showcases a vibrant oval turquoise stone, a hallmark of Southwestern American artistry from 1940 to 1970. It represents the enduring legacy of Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi silversmithing traditions, prized for both its protective symbolism and its distinct blue-green aesthetic.

What Is Turquoise Pendant Worth?

The typical price range for Turquoise Pendant is $150 - $200 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The intensity and rarity of the turquoise color, ranging from sky blue to deep green.
• The presence of a clear artisan or workshop hallmark indicating a specific maker.
• Overall condition of the stone, specifically the absence of cracks or stabilization issues.
• The complexity of the silverwork, including intricate stampings or symbolic motifs.

How to Identify Turquoise Pendant?

• Check for a 'Sterling' or '.925' hallmark on the reverse side of the silver setting.
• Examine the turquoise for natural matrix patterns and color variations typical of Southwestern mines.
• Look for hand-stamped motifs or saw-cut bezel work characteristic of 1940s-1970s craftsmanship.
• Verify the weight and patina of the silver, which should show natural oxidation consistent with its age.

History of Turquoise Pendant

Turquoise has been prized for centuries by various cultures, including ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans, who revered it for its vibrant blue-green hues and believed it held protective and healing properties. In the American Southwest, Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi artisans developed distinctive silversmithing techniques to create iconic turquoise jewelry, often incorporating intricate designs and symbolic motifs. This particular piece, with its classic setting, reflects the enduring appeal and craftsmanship of traditional Native American or Southwestern jewelry.