Vintage Native American Heishi Shell and Turquoise Necklace

Vintage Native American Heishi Shell and Turquoise Necklace. These necklaces are characteristic of Southwestern jewelry, often handcrafted by artists from tribes such as the Santo Domingo (Kewa) or Navajo. Bead Style: The small, disk-shaped beads are known as heishi, which are traditionally made by hand-drilling and grinding organic materials like shells or stones into uniform shapes. Materials: Common materials used include white or melon shell, olive shell, and turquoise nugget accents. Some variations also incorporate pipestone, jet, or silver beads.

Origins: While many similar styles are Navajo, the Santo Domingo Pueblo is particularly renowned for its mastery of fine heishi beadwork.

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