Necklace, Squash Blossom, Turquoise, Hallmark, Vintage ‘80s, 1946

CAN’T GO WRONG WITH A SQUASH FROM ROAN

Though this piece dates all the way back to the 80’s it hasn’t lost one ounce of beauty. This statement squash blossom necklace, crafted by Jerry Roan, is a large-scale vintage creation featuring 10 squashes centered by turquoise cabochons that feature golden caramel deposits placed on a double strand of sterling silver pearls. Each one is framed with a sterling silver shadow box detailed with simple and repetitive stampwork. The substantial naja has seven stones in similar settings affixed to the split-bar band. Exquisite and timeless on a double strand of benchmade sterling silver desert pearls.

Jerry Roan (Navajo). Shadow box; set stones. Stick man figures; buckles, crosses; letter openers.

Marks: J R; J R (conjoined, and a stick figure)

Jerry Roan’s early work is marked by a broken arrow pictorial as listed in Barton Wright’s Hallmarks of the Southwest.  He later changed his hallmark to his initials and a stick figure.

Jerry Roan turquoise squash blossom necklace, Navajo, with (5) graduated turquoise centered petals at either side (2" through 2-1/2"L) of the 7-stone naja, 4"H x 4" W, strung on double strand of silver beads, signed with stamp at back of naja.

• artist: Jerry Roan
• affiliation: Navajo
• hallmarks: JR (conjoined with pictorial)
• materials: sterling silver, turquoise
• dimensions: 7 stone naja: 4" x 4", length: 30"
• closure: hook & eye
• nice vintage condition
• stones are secure in their settings
• abrasions and surface wear commensurate with age
• silver has a nice patina 
• light wear from use
• style: JN1946