Sterling Silver Necklace with Handmade Beads [SOLD]

The work of Gibson Nez is instantly recognizable. His dedication to precision and beauty is unique among modern jewelers. He was known as the “master of stamp work” for his intricate lines set closely together to create a feather-like effect. Nez was born on the Jicarilla Apache Reservation in northern New Mexico. He spent time as a heavy equipment operator and as a rodeo bronc rider. During his lifetime he won over 700 awards for his amazing jewelry. Each piece Gibson made was a work of art. He said he would rather make one great piece than many mediocre pieces. His work is characterized by the marriage of stunning metals and stones, focusing on bringing out the natural beauty of the materials.

This necklace is an excellent example of the skill that Gibson Nez possessed. It is composed of handmade beads, each one perfectly shaped. The size of the beads ranges from ¼” to ¾”. They are strung so they gracefully fall along the neckline. The clasp is composed of one fine piece of turquoise set in a bezel that has small hairline stamps. The result is an elegant, one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

In 1948, Maria Martinez’s son, Popovi Da opened the Popovi Da Studio in San Ildefonso Pueblo. He and his wife Anita ran the gallery for decades. This necklace once belonged to Anita, and was passed on to her granddaughter.

Condition: this Sterling Silver Necklace with Handmade Beads is in excellent condition

Provenance: From the collection of Anita Da, Maria Martinez’s daughter-in-law through her granddaughter

Recommended Reading: Southwestern Indian Jewelry by Dexter Cirillo