Diné Five Strand Red Branch Coral Necklace [SOLD]

Five strands of polished red branch coral comprise this late twentieth century Diné of the Navajo Nation necklace. The coral remains in its natural state to reflect its beauty as in nature. Silver cones and handmade silver clasp (hook and loop) complete the necklace.

Today, high quality coral is extremely rare. Demand from Chinese consumers and over harvesting have led to scarcity of the popular jewelry element. One of the most desired components of Southwestern jewelry, coral is technically not a stone: it is the skeletal remains of a sea animal that lives in warm waters. Navajo and Pueblo jewelers were first introduced to coral by the early Spanish traders who had obtained it from Mediterranean fishermen off the coast of Spain. Fascinated by the deep color, silversmiths began integrating coral into their jewelry.

Talented native artists began to use coral in new, innovative styles in the mid-twentieth century. This necklace is composed of branch coral left in its natural shape. Each coral was cut to the desired length, drilled to be strung, and polished to a beautiful sheen.

We have selected the artist to be a Diné of the Navajo Nation, based on the silver ends. Most Pueblo jewelers and lapidary artisans would have tied off the ends in what is known as a pueblo wrap. The use of silver is more a trait of Diné artisans of the Navajo Nation.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Diné Five Strand Red Branch Coral Necklace is from a private collection

Recommended Reading: Contemporary Southwestern Jewelry by Diana Pardue with the Heard Museum

TAGS: Southwest Indian Jewelry, Navajo, necklace