Description
Renowned Navajo artist Bobby Thompson crafted this stunning vintage squash blossom necklace and earring set in the 1960s. The necklace features 20 vibrant turquoise nuggets in captivating shades of blue and green, each bezel-set in sterling silver. The turquoise showcases their natural beauty and unique matrix patterns flecked with pyrite.
At its center, a bold and elegant naja—a signature element of traditional Navajo jewelry—commands attention with its striking size and intricate details. The matching earrings add to the overall striking look.
The word turquoise comes from the 17th-century French word “turquois,” meaning Turkish, then the major exporter of turquoise to Europe. Turquoise was first mined over 5000 years ago in the Sinai Peninsula and adorned ancient Egyptian jewelry and clothing. Ancient Persians have been mining turquoise for 2000 years and used it to cap their palace domes to symbolize heaven on Earth. Pre-Columbian Native Americans mined turquoise from Central Mexico to the southwestern US.
Squash blossom necklaces originated in the late 19th century, inspired by the pomegranate flower motif brought to the Southwest by Spanish settlers. Adopted and adapted by Navajo silversmiths, these necklaces became iconic symbols of Native American artistry. They often featured turquoise and the crescent-shaped naja as central elements, reflecting both cultural significance and artistic innovation.
The pieces are in very good vintage condition with minimal signs of wear. The surface of the silver shows fine lines and marks, which are typical of vintage jewelry. The silver has a dark patina layer that can be polished upon request but should be left alone to add to the provenance. The turquoise was tested and is natural and not dyed. The necklace is stamped Bobby Thompson.
The necklace is 25″ long, the naja is 3-1/2″ wide, 4″ tall, and weighs 192 grams. The earrings measure 1-3/4″ tall, 3/4″ wide, and weigh 9.29 grams.
I try to show an accurate picture of the item in my photographs and the written description. Please note the dimensions in the description, as objects can often appear more substantial in the images than their actual size.
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