Gleaming Guilloche

This week our trove has two treasures, stunning sterling necklaces from the famed Norwegian jewelry design firm of David-Andersen. Formed of graceful stylized leaves, one necklace is in brilliant blue enamel while the other is snowy white. The translucent enamel is applied over a machined background, a technique known as guilloche, which gives the enamel depth and makes it shimmer.

Gold- and silversmith David Andersen founded the company in 1876 in Oslo, 

Norway. His skill and artistry attracted many patrons and by 1892 he opened a second shop. David Andersen’s son, Arthur, took over the company upon his father's passing in 1901. In honor of his father, Arthur changed the name of the company to the hyphenated David-Andersen. Born in 1875, Arthur  graduated from the Norwegian National Academy of Craft and Art Industry in 1893. Under Anderson, the company began producing the enamel jewelry and wares for which it has become world famous. Although the company during its long history followed artistic trends, such as art nouveau, art deco, and modernism, it also took inspiration from traditional Scandinavian design, as well as from nature. David-Anderson jewelry is renown for its simple and refined forms, accented with vibrant enamel. The company is still family owned, now into the fourth generation.

Each necklace is marked both "Sterling" and with the assay mark "925 S." In addition to the company's "D-A" and stylized scales in a circle marks, there is a "W" mark for jewelry designer Willy Winnaess, who worked for David-Andersen in the 1950s.

 

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

12834-1150, 1151

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