Antique Native American Navajo Sterling Silver Turquoise Squash Blossom Necklace

A very elegant classic 1920's sterling silver & turquoise squash blossom necklace. 
The squash blossom necklace features a double strand of Navajo sterling silver beads, strung on cotton thread and has a total of 54 sterling beads (27 to each side) and is punctuated with fourteen squash blossoms inlaid with turquoise, seven on each side. The circular naja features six serrated bezel set turquoise cabochons, the naja is bordered with silver 'rope-twist' decoration, Condition is excellent.
The earliest Navajo pieces did not have turquoise, or only smaller nuggets or cabochons as this necklace has.
Necklace is 26.5" long when unhooked
212 grams silver weight

The squash blossom necklace history is as intricate as the jewelry itself. The origin of the necklace can be traced back to the 19th century, when Navajo silversmiths began crafting these beautiful pieces. Influenced by Spanish and Mexican designs, the Navajo artisans adapted the crescent-shaped Naja symbol from the Moorish pendants brought to the Americas by Spanish conquistadors.
    The addition of the squash blossom motifs to the necklaces began in the late 1800s, influenced by the Spanish squash flower, which was a symbol of plentiful harvests. Over time, the Native American squash blossom necklace evolved into a distinct cultural artifact, symbolizing the blend of Native American and Spanish traditions. Today, it remains a celebrated piece of jewelry, treasured for its aesthetic and cultural significance.
    The Naja symbol is central to the design and meaning of the squash blossom necklace. This crescent-shaped pendant, which hangs prominently at the bottom of the necklace, has roots that extend far beyond Navajo culture. The Naja originally appeared as a protective symbol in Moorish and Roman designs before being adopted by Spanish settlers in the Americas.
    For the Navajo, the meaning of the Naja symbol took on its own unique interpretations. It is often seen as a symbol of protection, warding off evil spirits. Some interpretations also suggest that the Naja represents the womb, symbolizing life and fertility. The incorporation of this ancient symbol into the squash blossom necklace not only enhances its beauty but also adds a layer of historical and spiritual depth.

Imperial

12 inches high × 12 inches wide × 12 inches deep

Metric

high × wide x deep

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