Old Pawn Bead Neckwear

Note: this listing is for the single strand at far right.

Old Pawn is THE REAL DEAL in Native American Jewelry.. Much of it, actually most, heck let’s call it ALL, is ETHNOGRAPHIC. Meaning owned, worn and loved by Native Americans, especially in the Southwest. Remember that. It’s important.

Neckwear like this is seen in every picture of Indians since the invention of Photography. Mostly made by Pueblo artisans from the Pueblos, Navajo also got into the game. With such a large population, they often are called “Navajo Beads”.”” Santo Domingo are credited with their invention and made most of the rolled she’ll heishi.

This particular necklace is a single strand of handrolled light olivella shell and is shown in photos at far right. Of significance are the natural drilled natural turquoise. If you look closely your eyes will spot straight edges and angles, along with evidence of forming the stone with files and sandstone. Freshly restrung with yarn wrap. This suggests natural turquoise and 1930s vintage, possibly earlier.

A COLLECTOR ALERT for sure!