Diné Three Strand Coral Choker with Silver, Turquoise and Jet

The Coral Confluence: A Journey through Navajo Jewelry

This exquisite three-strand choker necklace is a testament to the timeless beauty of Navajo craftsmanship. It features small, round polished coral beads, meticulously arranged in three strands. Interspersed intermittently between the vibrant coral beads are contrasting beads of turquoise, jet, and glass, adding a touch of diversity and intrigue to the design. The strands are securely fastened with silver cones at their ends, and a handmade silver hook and clasp provide a fitting finish to this elegant ensemble.

Coral, an essential element of Navajo jewelry and culture, serves as a symbolic representation of life's beauty and vitality. Today, high-quality coral has become extremely rare due to increasing demand from global consumers and over-harvesting, leading to a scarcity of this popular jewelry element.

Interestingly, coral is not a stone but the skeletal remains of a sea creature that thrives in warm waters. Navajo and Pueblo jewelers were first introduced to coral by early Spanish traders who had sourced it from Mediterranean fishermen off the coast of Spain. The deep, captivating color of coral fascinated the silversmiths, who began integrating it into their jewelry designs.

By the mid-twentieth century, talented native artists began to experiment with coral, incorporating it into new, innovative styles that further enriched the tradition of Navajo jewelry. This evolution marked a significant milestone in the journey of Navajo jewelry, demonstrating the adaptability and creativity of its artisans.

Condition: excellent original condition

Provenance: this Diné Three Strand Coral Choker with Silver, Turquoise and Jet is  from the collection of a client of Adobe Gallery

Recommended Reading: INDIAN JEWELRY OF THE AMERICAN SOUTHWEST by Sarah Peabody and William A. Turnbaugh

TAGS: Southwest Indian Jewelry, Navajo, necklace