This is a 1970s Navajo Sterling Silver, Turquoise, and Hand Carved Bear Fetishes Necklace. It Features 15 Hand Carved Wood Bear Fetishes (total) - 1 Large Centerpiece (measures 1.5in. x 1.0in.) and 14 Smaller (measure approx. 1.2in. x 0.6in. each) Genuine Turquoise Beads, Santo Domingo Heishe, and Hand Made Sterling Silver Cones and Hook & Eye Clasp.
The Bear Fetishes are all Navajo Hand Carved and No Two Are Alike! Please Look Closely and note that many have Turquise Eyes - Some, But Not All, Have One Or Both Eyes Dotted With Turquoise Paint (see large bear close-up, both eyes on the large bear are dotted) A Testament to the Hand Craftmanship!
Please Note that this a 1-Strand Opera Length Necklace and do not be confused by my first two pictures and think it is a 2-Strand Choker - it is not. I wrapped it around the velvet bust twice for display purposes, but the necklace would not be traditionally worn this way as it would cause the clasp to be at the throat. Feel Free to Break With Tradition and wear it as a 2-Strand Choker if you like, however - Fashion Thrives On Innovation and you just may Set A New Trend!
This piece was among a large lot of jewelry I bought from a man who used to sell Native American jewelry at art fairs in the 70s and early 80s. When he retired he stored his remaining inventory, where it remained until I met him this year and negotiated to buy him out. This Is New Old Stock - Vintage Jewelry That Has Never Been Sold, Pre-Owned, Or Worn Before! As such, it is in Brand New Condition.
This piece is unsigned and has recently been Authenticated by Certified Appraiser of Native American Items & Jewelry - Helen Snyder of Sedona, Arizona. Helen Snyder is a Published Expert with 40+ years experience in Native American Arts and a Certified Appraiser.
METAL: Sterling Silver.
BEADS: Navajo Hand Carved Wood Bear Fetishes (1 large, 14 small) Genuine Turquoise (16) & Santo Domingo Heishe.
LENGTH: 35.5 Inches.
AGE: 1970s.
MAKER: Navajo - Unsigned (Authenticated by Expert).
CONDITION: New Old Stock - Brand New Never Before Owned Or Worn Condition.
SHIPPING: Shipping within the United States is FREE! Shipping to Canada is $1.00 per item or lot purchased. All other international sales please contact me prior to purchase.
RETURNS: I accept any returns within two weeks of the date you receive your item - if you are in any way unsatisfied, please contact me to return your item for a refund of the purchase price minus my shipping costs and a Paypal Refund Issuing Fee.
PAYMENT: I generally only accept Paypal for payment. If your are unable to pay via Paypal and wish to arrange some other form of payment, please contact me.
Questions Or Comments: Please contact us.
Thank you very much for your interest! - David & Gail
Item D021 for sale by David Altherr
