Pin, Cluster, Turquoise, Manta, Hallmark, Vintage Old Pawn, 1088

A FAMILY HEIRLOOM

This beautiful pin is what is known as a grandmother cluster; legend has it that the center stone is the grandmother, and each outer ring represents her being surrounded by her children and grandchildren. This cluster pin was crafted by Jack Weekoty, a man that is known for his cluster work.This one is made up of a combination of snake eye and oval turquoise stones, sterling silver drops, silver half moons, and twist wire details. It’s absolutely stunning and the kind of statement piece that’s destined to become a beloved heirloom.

Jack Weekoty (also spelled Weekooty) was a Zuni lapidarist born in 1916.  He was taught the laborious skill of hand-cut gemstones by the legendary Zuni lapidarist, Horace Iule and produced jewelry from 1945 to 1975. Jack specialized in channel inlay as well as traditional cluster work. His hallmark consisted of his initials in Gothic print with a raincloud surround. 

Jack served in WWII and was blind late in life.

• artist: Jack Weekoty, b 1916, d 2009
• affiliation: Zuni
• hallmarks: STERLING JW
• materials: sterling silver, turquoise
• meaurements:
• weight
• closure: locking c-clasp
• nice vintage condition
• stones are secure in their settings
• abrasions and surface wear commensurate with age
• silver has a nice patina 
• wear from ethnographic use
• style: JP1088
  • in stock
    All returns on jewelry are subject to exchange or store credit