This exceptional vintage necklace by celebrated Santo Domingo Pueblo artist Johnny Rosetta is a masterwork of Pueblo lapidary and silversmithing united in a single elegant composition. A continuous strand of hand-cut natural bone disc heishi beads — warm cream with a smooth, polished surface and the subtle organic variation that distinguishes genuine bone from synthetic material — flows the full length of the necklace, punctuated at regular intervals by clusters of three to four vivid turquoise disc heishi accent beads. The turquoise clusters are evenly spaced throughout the strand, their saturated sky-blue creating a rhythmic, graphic counterpoint to the warm ivory of the bone heishi — a classic Santo Domingo color pairing of extraordinary refinement.

The centerpiece of the necklace is a spectacular hand-crafted sterling silver closure assembly of exceptional quality. A large hand-stamped sterling silver barrel bead — engraved with a sunburst and feather motif — sits at the center front, flanked by turquoise disc clusters and three small Navajo pearl round beads that anchor the transition to the clasp hardware. The closure itself is a beautifully cast sterling silver elongated tapered spike/horn toggle bar — a dramatic, sculptural form that functions as both a secure closure and a bold design statement, the polished silver horn catching the light with every movement.

Artisan Heritage

Johnny Rosetta is a respected Santo Domingo Pueblo (Kewa Pueblo) jewelry artist known for his refined approach to traditional heishi beadwork and his exceptional silversmithing. His work combines the ancient Pueblo tradition of hand-cut stone and bone heishi with sophisticated hand-fabricated silver hardware — a synthesis that elevates the necklace form beyond beadwork into the realm of fine jewelry. Pieces signed by Johnny Rosetta are sought after by collectors of authentic Santo Domingo Pueblo work.

Specifications

Artist: Johnny Rosetta, Santo Domingo Pueblo
Tribe: Santo Domingo Pueblo (Kewa Pueblo)
Style: Single-Strand Bone Heishi & Turquoise Accent Necklace with Silver Toggle Clasp
Materials: Natural bone disc heishi beads, turquoise disc heishi accent clusters, hand-stamped sterling silver barrel bead (sunburst/feather motif), Navajo pearl round beads, cast sterling silver elongated spike/horn toggle bar
Length: 29.5"
Condition: Excellent vintage condition; strand intact, all hardware secure

This is a one-of-a-kind estate piece. Authenticity, artistry, and heritage are at the heart of every item we offer at Black Arrow Gallery.