Larry Pacheco Necklace of Silver And Sugilite With Overlay Animal Beads

One of the first collectible pieces of Native American jewelry that I ever purchased was a silver ring in the same style of Kewa animal overlay as the beads on this contemporary necklace by Larry Pacheco of Kewa Pueblo also known as Santo Domingo Pueblo. 

Even decades ago, my single silver ring was $175 which was more than I'd ever spent on a piece of jewelry. I thought about it for a week before making my purchase, and I finally realized I couldn't say no. The precious animal overlay design was just too captivating.

Larry Pacheco's necklace has EIGHT similar animal overlay beads that are equivalent in size to my single ring. On each bead, you'll find multiple animals including birds, deer, elk, sheep, bison and bear. There's no other culture in the world besides the Indigenous people at tiny Kewa Pueblo that does enchanting animal overlay figures just like this!

In addition, on Larry Pacheco's necklace, you'll find a reversible angular pendant set with a different purple sugilite stone on either side. Wear the pendant one way, and it's just silver and stone. Wear the pendant the other way, and you'll find a trail of more overlay animal figures.

Pacheco was born in the early 1950's and is known for his handmade precision silver necklaces which have changed designs over the decades. Some are more traditional with stamped silver beads. This one, with its endearing animals is every bit his own.

It was originally acquired by a significant Chicago family known for the depth and breadth of their fine Native American art collection. They must've felt the same sense of wonder and delight when they first encountered Larry Pacheco's charming necklace.

Definitely a statement piece, the necklace measures 24 3/4" from end to end plus a pendant that dangles 3" x 1 1/2". Each animal bead is 3/4" diameter. Necklace is signed on the side. Closes with a hook and eye clasp.