Necklace Date Unknown

This necklace was created by an A'shiwi artist from Zuni, using silver and turquoise. These materials are not only beautiful but also deeply connected to the land and cultural identity of the Zuni people. Notice the intricate details, the careful arrangement of the turquoise stones set in silver. Each element required skill, precision, and a deep understanding of the materials. The turquoise, with its unique variations in color and matrix, is carefully shaped and polished, then set within hand-fabricated silver bezels. Consider the labor involved, from mining and processing the raw materials to the final assembly of the necklace. These processes carry cultural significance, with techniques and designs passed down through generations. This piece defies any simple distinction between art and craft. It’s a testament to the power of materials, making, and cultural context in understanding the full meaning of an artwork.