Large multi color necklace set -BIL 749

Stunning multi color necklace set. This necklace was a collaboration of two well known Navajo artists. The silver beads are crafted by Rose Martin while the other stone and silver dangle elements are by Navajo artist Lowell Draper. The necklace measures 16" with a 3" extension. The saucer & round styled beads vary in size from approximately 10mm to 7mm. There are 6 rectangular stone clusters that vary in size 1" to 1"1/4 with a center piece that is 2" x 1". Each of these features blue-green Sonoran Gold turquoise, purple and orange spiny oyster shells and red coral. This is a one of a kind piece. HANDCRAFTED NAVAJO NECKLACE SET Sonoran Gold Canyon Turquoise is an interesting turquoise from Senora, Mexico, near Nogales, Arizona, and its neighbor: Nogales, Mexico, which is the northernmost point in all of Mexico. Most has needed stabilizing to be useful. The high-grade natural material is a medium blue or often medium lime green to darker green. This is usually accompanied by iron pyrite, or brown matrix. The high-grade turquoise from this mine is rare and is considered both esoteric and valuable. Spiny Oyster Shell (orange & purple coloring ) Living Spondylus shells are, indeed, very spiny, but the polished product looks very smooth the most used Spondylid Bivalve shell colors include orange, reds, and purples and may include distinct striations and color variations. The Orange Spiny Oyster occurs in shallow to moderately deep waters, where snorkelers and scuba divers readily harvest them. Purple Spiny Oysters grow in deeper water, making them more difficult to find and harvest. Red Coral: The coral seen in the Southwest is mainly Red Mediterranean Branch Coral. Coral’s red color has important symbolic meaning in the Native American culture. It represents, for example, heat or fire, representing the spirit within, energy, and power. It was originally traded between the Spanish and various pueblos and the Navajo (Diné) people of the Southwest. Native Americans also consider the gem as a sign of wealth and status because of its expense and rarity.