Astounding Squash Blossom

This stunning sterling silver and coral necklace was crafted by skilled Navajo silversmith, Fatoya Yazzie, renown for her contemporary take on traditional designs. 

This style of necklace is known as "squash blossom," named after the decorations dangling from the sides. Although the squash is an important crop for Southwestern tribes, the Navajo word for these designs means "bead that spreads out." The name "squash blossom" may be the result of a  mistranslation or misunderstanding, but this style of bead has been created by Navajo silversmiths since the late 1800s and the "squash blossom" name appears to have been around almost as long. Some think the squash blossom design is actually a representation of the crown-like tip of a pomegranate, a design element often found in early Spanish clothing and jewelry. The red coral was introduced to Native American silversmiths by European traders. 

The crescent-like pendant is known as a "naja." It originated in Moorish Spain as an amulet to ward off evil and the design is believed to have been brought to the Americas by Spanish conquistadors. 

The back of the naja is stamped "Sterling" and with the artisan's initials, "FY."

 All posted items are for sale at Next-to-New but things can sell quickly!

15878-3

Captivating Conchos

This beautiful belt is stamped from sterling silver, studded with sky-blue turquoise stones.  It is by renown Navajo silversmith Marcella James.

The oval pieces are referred to as conchos.  The word derives from the Spanish "concha," which refers to a conch or seashell.  Conchos were used by the Spanish to adorn saddles and bridles, as well on clothing and as jewelry.   Concho belts have become a tradition among the Navajo Indians, who began making conchos around the 1860s, at first hammering them out of silver coins.  Originally, the conchos were strung on leather woven through center slots in each piece, but later Navajo silversmiths began to solder loops on the back for a belt to slide through, allowing the center of the concho to decorated.  There are two basic types of concho belts, with either the conchos strung on leather or connected by links.  A link concho belt can be fastened with a hook almost anywhere on the belt, so that it can be adjusted to fit many waist sizes.  This breathtaking belt could accessorize any outfit, from casual denim to elegant evening wear.

Often the conchos alternate with decorative spacers.  The most traditional form is called a butterfly, and looking at the spacers on this belt, it is easy to see why.

The belt is signed by Marcella James and is marked "Sterling."

Traditional, Yet Timeless. . .

. . . is how one could described this stunning pendant signed by Navajo artist Artie Yellowhorse.  Sculpted in shining sterling silver, this dazzling dogwood flower dangles from a red leather cord.

Artie Yellowhorse is a third-generation Navajo silversmith, following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather.  She combines traditional Navajo silverwork and contemporary design, creating gleaming pieces that are truly wearable art.  Her shimmering stylized dogwood blossoms are one of her signature designs.     

All posted items are for sale at Next-to-New, but things can sell quickly!

5402-1747