Necklace: Ant Squash Blossom
Necklace: Ant Squash Blossom
This vintage sterling squash blossom is more modern than others, but is considered rare. It is crafted with such perfection that I had to take a second look at the tiniest details to make sure that it wasn’t machine made. It is not. You can see the slightest evidence of tool markings or saw variations if you study the individual pieces. The diligence, the patience, and the effort that went into crafting this necklace is sheer perfectionism. It is a power house. Weighted and fierce, but humble without the flash of stones or coins. There are 14 blossoms that rest perfectly in line almost touching, but are independently felt when worn because the petals have a bite. They aren’t going to destroy your garment, but they have a tenacity about them that you really only notice when wearing. I personally love this. Jewelry as armor. Energetic strength in design.
The beads are smooth, soldered together, and weighty. Everything is perfectly finished and working together. The beads at the clasp are a unique touch and lend a clue to the character of the maker. The clasp is hook with a R Rookbridge hallmark. The naja is sand cast. On the reverse of the naja is an ant.
I am more than in awe of this piece. It is treasure.
Diné. Unmarked.
Measurements: Necklace: 26”/167g.
Growing up with a father from the heart of Texas, squash blossom designs have always been a part of my jewelry exposure. I love them all. I get excited seeing them on the makers who create them, in a case lined together, as well as on the curious folks who wear them. They are pure strength and emit intriguing beauty, and I am honored to have some that have been passed to me to offer.
My favorite memories are of the men who would wear them. Always with boots, a jacket, and a hat. Looking very uniquely sharp and wearing their worth. Sometimes at a funeral—styled in black. Those fellas were very cool to me. Someone who had traveled places. Who knows..but those guys looked good wearing such a statement piece. A little one in dusty Texas doesn’t forget that energy easily.
The squash blossom necklace was created in the late 1870s or early 1880s after the native people of the area made contact with Spanish Mexicans. The Navajo, it is believed, were the first tribe to adopt the design, but by the early 1900s, the art form had spread to neighboring tribes, including the Zuni and the Pueblo. -Michelle Graff
There is a lot of talk around the history of the design, especially whether it is a true squash blossom or a throwback to the revered pomegranate seen on the Spanish uniforms and buttons during colonization. The Naja—the pendant, is a prehistoric talisman, but it is said to have been potentially adopted from the Spanish Mexicans or from the plains people—the Shawnee or Delaware. For those who enjoy historic symbolism, Najas with turquoise hanging from their center have been said to represent a baby in the womb.
The squash blossom pieces that I am attracted to the most are the vintage heavy metal ones. First phase, as they are often called, were primarily made of found metal. Sometimes this meant coins before it became illegal to craft with government change. The earliest designs solely consisted of rustic found metal, then came more embellished found silver—coins, followed by the stones. The Najas were traditionally cast silver and the beads were handworked. These days, the necklaces are often embellished with faux stones, the Najas are made from wire or cut from sheet metal, and the beads mechanically made. Still attractive, just different.
As per standard, very early vintage is not polished unless requested. Silver will naturally polish the more that it is worn.
All jewelry is sold as is & is non-refundable.
All pieces are selected for their high quality condition, uniqueness, and to directly support the importance of the craft.
