#38 • Handmade Sterling Silver and Red Oyster Pearls Necklace

Part of Graham's Silver Bits, Silver Spurs and Western Collection Auction (live auction by Bid Fast and Last)

High bid $375.00

Status: Sold

This magnificent handmade multi-strand necklace showcases the exceptional artistry and refined sensibility found in high-end Native American beadwork. Weighing 248 grams, the piece carries remarkable presence — a luxurious drape that speaks to both the density of the materials and the skill required to achieve perfect balance across each strand. The necklace is composed of meticulously hand-cut red spiny oyster shell beads, known for their rich, fiery spectrum of orange, coral, and russet tones. These beads are expertly shaped and graduated with precision, demonstrating a mastery of traditional bead-making techniques that demand patience, control, and an intimate understanding of natural materials. The warm, organic hues of the spiny oyster are further enhanced through subtle variation in each bead, creating a vibrant, harmonious flow that is visually commanding yet beautifully refined. Interspersed throughout the composition are sections of handmade sterling silver bench beads, crafted in the traditional Navajo style. Their oxidized finish introduces a deep, shadowed contrast that elevates the intensity of the shell’s color while adding rhythmic metallic texture. The alignment of the silver beads across all three strands is flawless — a testament to a practiced artisan with an impeccable eye for proportion and pattern. The necklace is finished with smooth, hand-formed sterling silver cones and a traditional hook clasp, ensuring both durability and ease of wear. These elements are not merely functional but aesthetically integral, reinforcing the piece’s balance of elegance and strength. The professional-grade finishing highlights every detail, from the polish of the silver to the uniformity of the beadwork transition. Key Features: Substantial 248 grams — exceptional weight and presence High-quality red spiny oyster shell beads, hand-cut and perfectly matched Traditional handmade sterling silver bench beads with balanced oxidation Hand-formed sterling silver cones and secure hook clasp Multi-strand design crafted with exacting symmetry and fluid drape A statement piece suitable for advanced collectors and high-end Native American jewelry aficionados Measures Approx: 38.5"