Vintage Sterling Silver Desert Pearl Necklace, 1980s Taxco Mexico, 30 inch

The beautiful style of jewelry called Navajo Pearls are artisan crafted sterling silver beads traditionally made by Navajo (Diné) silversmiths. When not made by Navajo artisans, beads in this style are called Desert Pearls. These handmade beads are commonly seen on Squash Blossom necklaces, but are also worn alone on single or multi-strand necklaces and in bracelets.
This particular strand was artisan crafted in Taxco, Mexico at a time when Navajo/Desert pearls reached an apex in popularity, mid to late 1980s.
This strand of Desert pearls is quite a beautiful and made with the higher-end detail of a graduated design. This strand is also longer measuring a significant 30.25", with the largest bead 14MM and the smallest 3.5MM. So the beads are larger creating a bold presentation when worn.

Interestingly, this style of sterling silver bead is considered exceptionally difficult to craft. Each bead is unique, depending on its size and style, it can take many hours to make. Once the beads are complete, they are strung together on silver wire and secured with a clasp. Navajo artists often express their own style through unique stamping and finishing techniques. Mexican designs focus on creating a highly polished finish so that the shine of the sterling silver is prominently featured.

The cultural perspective and the timeless quality of the Pearl design makes this necklace a heritage piece, something that can be passed from Mother to Daughter in perpetuity.
Purely classic with an elegant simplicity, this necklace can be paired with anything, worn anywhere and works from day to evening. It is just that beautiful and completely versatile.

The Specifics:
Measurements:
Length: 30.25"
Largest Bead: .60" (14MM)
Smallest Bead: .15" (3.5MM)
Condition: Excellent Vintage-No dings or dents in any of the beads- Working Tongue and Groove Clasp- Please expand the photos as they are part of the description
Composition: Sterling Silver
Construction: Artisan Crafted, Weighty Piece
Hallmarks: Taxco, Mexico, 925 (Sterling Silver)
Makers Mark: TM-87 (The first letter, T, is the city letter, Taxco. The second letter, M is the first letter of the smith’s last name.
The number after the dash, 87, means this silversmith is the 87th smith whose last name starts with the letter M to have registered in the city of Taxco, Mexico.
Age: 1980s

Please review the photos carefully and email with any questions you may have prior to making a purchase.

Enjoy 🌞