High-Grade Navajo Sterling Silver and Multi-Stone Turquoise Collar Necklace

• The Turquoise: The stones appear to be Morenci or Kingman Turquoise, characterized by a vibrant "electric" blue and a distinctive metallic iron pyrite (fool's gold) or dark matrix. The stones are expertly matched for color and matrix consistency, which significantly increases the value.

• Sterling Silver Framework: * Hand-Cut Bezels: Each stone is housed in a sawtooth bezel, protected by a heavy silver "shield" or shadowbox-style backing.
  • Ornate Appliqué: Every individual link is decorated with hand-melted silver "raindrops" and twisted wire, a classic Navajo motif symbolizing the blessing of water.
• The Bench Beads: The strand is completed with handmade "Navajo Pearls" (bench beads)—seamless, hand-soldered silver spheres that provide a comfortable drape for such a heavy piece.

Technical Summary

• Weight: 168.40 grams (exceptionally heavy; roughly 6 ounces of silver and stone).
• Length: 25.3 inches (falls to the mid-to-lower chest).
• Metal: Sterling Silver (.925).
• Stone Count: 17 large cabochons.
• Construction: Hinged silver plaques on a double-strand of handmade bench beads.

Condition & Collector's Note

• Wear: The necklace shows a wonderful, deep-seated patina in the recessed silver work, which collectors prefer as it proves the piece hasn't been over-polished with harsh chemicals.
• Scale: Most standard Navajo necklaces weigh between 60 and 100 grams. At nearly 170 grams, this is a collector-grade "Masterpiece" piece meant for formal wear or gallery display.
• Durability: The heavy-gauge construction ensures the stones are well-protected, though a piece of this weight should be stored flat to prevent the silver wire from stretching over time.