Description
This is a large abalone cross pendant necklace. It has 4 strand of fine baby olive heishi and apple coral heishi. It’s finished off with sterling cones and lobster clasp. Not heavy piece, light and comfortable.
“Native Americans of the Southwest were introduced to coral by the Spanish, who also brought items such as horses, sheep, wheat, and metalwork. For centuries, Native people had been fashioning beads from shells like spiny oyster, and the deep red Mediterranean coral quickly became a prized material, traded between the Spanish and various pueblos and the Navajo (Diné) people of the Southwest. Native Americans also consider the gem as a sign of wealth and status because of its expense and rarity. Since coral was very pricey then (and still is), it is worn by wealthy individuals, medicine men, and elders. And of course, the darker the red, the better!”
*cross- 2 1/2” X 2 1/4″
*sterling silver cones & hook & eye clasp
*4 strands (multi-strand) of fine baby olive heishi, & coral heishi
*19 1/2”