RARE Two Strand Branch Coral Necklace [SOLD]

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-20th Century.  This necklace is comprised of branch coral left in its original finger-like shape.  Each coral was cut to the desired length, drilled to be strung, and polished to a beautiful sheen.  The two strands were tied off and silver cones and beads attached to the ends.

We have selected the origin to be Navajo-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 a more Navajo trait (see image below).

Condition: this RARE Two Strand Branch Coral Necklace is in original condition

Provenance: from the collection of a family from Albuquerque

Recommended Reading:  Navajo Jewelry: A Legacy of Silver and Stone by Lois Jacka