This magnificent vintage Santo Domingo necklace showcases one of the most prized and distinctive turquoise sources in the American Southwest — Morenci turquoise from the Morenci copper mine in southeastern Arizona. Four continuous strands of hand-cut Morenci turquoise tube heishi beads flow in a lush, vivid rope of robin’s egg blue, each tiny cylinder displaying the characteristic dark iron pyrite matrix flecks and webbing that are the unmistakable signature of genuine Morenci turquoise. The color is exceptional — a saturated, electric blue-green that has made Morenci one of the most collectible American turquoise sources among serious jewelry enthusiasts.

The heishi is cut with the precision and uniformity that defines quality Santo Domingo Pueblo lapidary work — each tube bead ground to a consistent diameter and length, the four strands flowing together with a smooth, ribbon-like quality that drapes beautifully at 30 inches. All four strands are gathered at each end into hand-stamped sterling silver elongated spike cone end caps decorated with a delicate sunburst/daisy stamp motif and finished with a rich oxidized patina that highlights the stamped detail beautifully. The cones connect to a handmade sterling silver elongated oval paperclip link extender chain with wire-wrapped loops and an S-hook clasp — a classic and secure closure that adds a refined finishing detail.

Artisan Heritage

Made by a skilled Santo Domingo Pueblo heishi artist. Santo Domingo Pueblo (Kewa Pueblo) is the preeminent center of heishi beadwork in the American Southwest — its artists have been cutting and stringing shell and stone heishi for centuries, and their work is recognized worldwide for its quality and consistency. The use of Morenci turquoise — a mine-specific stone with a distinctive and highly recognizable matrix — elevates this necklace to collector status.

Specifications

Turquoise Source: Morenci Mine, Arizona
Tribe: Santo Domingo Pueblo (Kewa Pueblo)
Style: 4-Strand Morenci Turquoise Tube Heishi Necklace
Materials: Natural Morenci turquoise tube heishi beads, hand-stamped sterling silver spike cone end caps (sunburst/daisy motif, oxidized finish), sterling silver elongated oval paperclip link extender chain, S-hook clasp
Strands: 4
Length: 30"
Hallmark: None
Condition: Excellent vintage condition; strands intact, clasp 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.