Necklace, Thunderbird Depression, Vintage ‘40s, 1738

DEPRESSION-ERA JEWELRY NEVER CEASES TO AMAZE US.

Southwestern Santo Domingo-style jewelry is not only beautiful but almost baffling. This vibrant vintage battery bird necklace was crafted from tiny turquoise scraps, bits of gypsum, and various found objects (such as car battery casings). Crafted in the traditional style, it's centered by a colorful thunderbird accented by a series of coordinating triangular tabs on a strand of gypsum beads. The resourcefulness of these post-war jewelry artisans is nothing short of remarkable. As they say, one man's trash is another man's treasure!

DEPRESSION-ERA JEWELRY NEVER CEASES TO AMAZE US.

• affiliation: Kewa
• materials: gypsum, turquoise, various recycled resins
• measurements: length: 20 1/2", ornament: 2 1/4" x 1 1/2"
• weight: 46 grams
• closure: hook & eye
• nice vintage condition
• no missing stones
• light wear from ethnographic use  
• has been restored and re-strung
• style number: JN1738