How Navajo Pearl Necklaces Are Made: A Step-by-Step Guide
Navajo pearl necklaces are a unique and beautiful piece of jewelry that has been crafted by the Navajo people for generations. The process of making these necklaces is both intricate and time-consuming, but the end result is a stunning piece of wearable art that is highly sought after.
In this article, we will delve into the details of how Navajo pearl necklaces
are made, step-by-step. From the initial creation of the silver beads to the final assembly of the necklace, we will explore the traditional techniques used by Navajo artisans to create these exquisite pieces of jewelry.
Creating the Silver Beads:
The first step in creating a Navajo pearl necklace is to make the silver beads. The beads are made from 925 Sterling Silver, which is an alloy of Silver and other metals. It is totally Nickel and Copper free making it highest quality material which oozes class. The silver is melted down and then poured into a mold to create the beads. The beads are then carefully hammered and shaped into round beads. This is where true artisanry is reflected. One can easily tell if a bead is made by an amateur or a generational Navajo artist. One of the unique features of Navajo pearl necklaces is that each bead is handmade, so there can be slight variations in size and shape. This adds to the overall charm and character of the necklace.
Stringing the Beads:
Once the silver beads have been made, they are strung onto flexible silver chord or wire to create the necklace. Flexible silver wire makes the necklace sturdy so that it maintains its shape and gives it enough elasticity to rest perfectly on your dress without flinging recklessly in the air. This is what differentiates an authentic piece from a faux one which is not only cheap but also a disgrace to this cultural piece of jewelry.
Adding the Closure
Once the beads are strung into the silver chord, a closure is attached to its end that marks the finished product as Navajo Pearl Beaded Necklace. Typically, Necklaces are equipped with one of the two closures. Hook and eye Closure and Lobster and eye Closure. Both closures have their own utility. But it comes down to personal preference of wearer. You have the choice to select which one you want. Sometimes, a 2mm silver extender chain is also added at the end to adjust the length.
Adding the Finishing Touches:
After the beads have been strung onto the cord or wire, the necklace is almost complete. However, there are a few finishing touches that must be added to give the necklace its final polish. One of the most important finishing touches is the addition of spacers between the beads. These spacers are usually small silver beads that are inserted between the larger Navajo pearl beads. The spacers help to give the necklace a more balanced and symmetrical appearance, and they also help to prevent the beads from rubbing against each other and causing damage. Another finishing touch that is often added to Navajo pearl necklaces is a small silver pendant or charm. The pendant can be any shape or size, but it is usually chosen to complement the overall design of the necklace.