Squash Blossom Necklace with Box Bow Blossoms [SOLD]

Although Adobe Gallery has had squash blossom necklaces before, more rare is this delightful variation. This necklace is one of the most charming box bow necklaces we've ever seen.

Box bow necklaces derive their name from the bowtie-like silver pieces upon which the turquoise cabochons are mounted. Less common than a traditional squash blossom necklace, this box bow necklace is refined and less bulky than some, making it easy and comfortable to wear.

From clasps at the nape of the neck cascades a strand of uniformly sized handmade silver beads. One third of the way down this strand grows from single to double rows, allowing for stability and housing for the box bow blossoms. There are ten blossoms on each side, very sweetly hand stamped and laid with exquisitely bright blue hued cabochons of turquoise. The bow elements spread like butterfly wings laterally from the turquoise and are mounted on the exterior side with the silver blossoms this necklace is named for.

The naja is classic and tasteful in form and design. A crescent moon is made from ridged silver, and tipped with turquoise. The center of the crescent features a twisted piece of silver, adding variation, texture and light reflection. From the center a final turquoise piece extends downward, uniform and mirroring the others in every way.

What is a Naja? Early Navajo-made jewelry contained elements that were borrowed directly from Spanish colonial and Mexican ornament. One of these items is the naja, a crescent form of Moorish origin. The Spanish conquerors in the Southwest outfitted their horses in elaborate silver ornaments—one of which was the naja that hung directly on the forehead of the horse as a part of the bridle. Today, it is still seen in both Pueblo and Navajo modern jewelry. 

Condition: This necklace is in very good condition

Provenance: This box bow squash blossom necklace is from a private Tennessee collection

Recommended Reading: Indian Silverwork of the Southwest, Illustrated - Volume One by Harry P. Mera

Relative Links: Southwest Indian Jewelry, Navajo, necklace