How would you describe this necklace?

Main1 · February 11, 2020, 7:45pm

Does this appear to be an authentic older necklace?

How would one describe the beads etc?

Jason · February 11, 2020, 11:42pm

Hello, welcome to the forum. The silver beads are machine made, looks like real turquoise and coral, nickel coins. Most likely an assembled piece, not sure it is Native American. Definitely has character. I included a picture of the bead.

Main1 · February 12, 2020, 11:50pm

Thank you Jason!
Can you or anyone show me an example of a hand made bead for reference?

Jason · February 13, 2020, 12:23am

Here are some beads left over from an Andy Cadman necklace,

Main1 · February 13, 2020, 4:07pm

Thank you, Jason!

So a craftsman could either make their own beads or buy bulk? Are there talented artists who use pre-made and vice-versa? Or is the use of a hand made bead a sign of an elevated level of the art?

JW · February 13, 2020, 5:45pm

I don’t know about the beads but your barrel clasp is a clue that this is an artisan or “handmade” item as you seldom see this kind of commercially-made clasp in Native jewelry.

Jason · February 14, 2020, 12:35am

Handmade beads are preferred. However, you do find a number of artists who will use machine beads. You will even have artists who take those machine beads and grind down that seam.

Main1 · February 14, 2020, 4:05pm

Thanks for the input on this one. I have a few cool thing to share, so I’m sure I’ll benefit from your experience again.
Much appreciated!