848. Santo Domingo Pueblo Necklace

848.
This beautiful necklace is handcrafted in the traditional Santo Domingo (Kewa Pueblo) showcasing the skill and artistry of Native American jewelers. The necklace is strung with finely cut disc beads of natural shell, ranging in tones from creamy beige to rich brown, giving it a warm, organic look. The beads are accented with bands of vivid turquoise, adding a striking pop of color and balance to the overall design.

Measuring 15 inches long, this piece sits gracefully at the collarbone. It is finished with a sterling silver hook-and-eye clasp. The shell beads are carefully shaped and smoothed, yet retain slight natural variations that emphasize the authenticity of the work.

This necklace embodies the time-honored tradition of Santo Domingo heishi jewelry, where natural materials are transformed into wearable works of art. The contrast between the earthy shell and the vibrant turquoise reflects the Southwestern landscape itself — desert earth meeting brilliant sky.