MATERIALS:
Sterling silver and real Turquoise.
MEASUREMENTS:
Necklace measures approximately 20-7/8" long. The center piece measures approximately 1/2" long and 2-5/8" at widest point.
DESCRIPTION:
An offer like this will not last long! This piece of Native American jewelry is Zuni hand crafted by artist Effie Calavaza, out of genuine sterling silver, along with real Turquoise stones. The center piece has a total of NINE stones, FIVE of which are delicately set in hand cut bezel settings in the midst of TWO gorgeous silver snake designs, while the other FOUR stones are inlaid and create the snakes eyes. Mini silver beads can be seen accenting the snake designs for a stunning finish. The snake is found in many healing and fertility rituals. It is also connected with lightning, speed, and being able to move undetected. The center piece is stamped Zuni, sterling, and hallmarked. Each link in the necklace is perfectly connected together to create this gorgeous chain. The necklace clasp is stamped .925 (sterling silver).
Turquoise is the birthstone of December. It is believed that turquoise tends to bring good fortune, strength and helps overcome illness. Turquoise got its name from the Levantine traders called Turks who brought the stone to Europe from Persia via Turkey centuries ago. Native Americans have prized turquoise since the time of the Aztecs, who mined it in New Mexico. The natural variations that occur in turquoise are part of its appeal and beauty.
Well-known artist Effie Calavaza is from the Zuni Tribe, which is located in New Mexico. Effie was taught by her husband Juan Calavaza and began silver work in 1956. She combined her husband's work and her designs to create some of the most beautiful and most distinctive Native American art! Her sand casting and hand done work are among the best and most recognized jewelry in the southwest. Her jewelry is stamped with the family hallmark EFFIE C. ZUNI, which is used by Effie and her three daughters Georgiana Yatsattie, Gloria Jean Garcia, and Susie Calavaza. Effie's daughters assist her in the jewelry making (she shared her spouse's mark, JUAN C. ZUNI, until his death ca. 1970). To this day Effie's work is collected throughout the world and she continues making jewelry because she enjoys it!
