Vintage Navajo Turquoise Cluster Squash Blossom Necklace

Squash blossom necklaces are one of the most distinctively Southwestern Native American jewelry pieces around. From the streets of Manhattan, to festivals in the California desert, people go crazy for them.

Anywhere there's a highly desirable, dare say iconic, piece like a squash blossom necklace, you'll find a gazillion knockoffs and reproductions. The only ones worth actually putting onto your body are those authentically handmade by Native American jewelers that are imbued with the artistry and spirit of their maker. Legitimate (and soulful) Navajo and Pueblo squash blossom necklaces are in high demand, though. 

Goodness is this one great! It's a vintage handmade Navajo turquoise cluster squash blossom necklace. Notice, if you can, the little marks on each little turquoise stone showing that they were painstakingly shaped by hand. Also, notice, if you will, how elegantly long this one is. It's perfect for those of us who are taller and/or want more presence in our jewelry.

Another endearing element to this particular squash blossom necklace is a little imperfection in at least one of the silver beads - a bit of that extra soul you'll never find in a mass-produced "fashion" squash. Finally, you'll notice that the turquoise itself is in shades of blue AND green. That's because over the years, the natural turquoise stones have interacted with their environment and have changed - just like we all do. These stones will continue to change over time with more wear, and wear this necklace you will! 

This came to Turquoise & Tufa from a daughter who had inherited it from her mother. It was originally acquired in either Tucson or Santa Fe, and here are some endearing words written by the daughter about her mother, "She was a realtor with a very big personality and loved to dress accordingly with "statement" jewelry. She knew everybody and could talk to anybody. As kids, my sisters and I were mortified to go anywhere with her." 

This beautiful squash perfectly fits a woman with a big personality, but it's also big enough to do its own talking if you're someone who is quieter and wants to rely on your jewelry for the statement-making.

It measures 31" from end to end and the center naja pendant is 3" x 2 3/4". Each cluster blossom is 1 1/4". It's unsigned.