Early 1900's Vintage Navajo Hand Wrought Native American Silver Concho Necklace

This is an astonishing vintage Navajo Native American jewelry Native American jewelry late 1800's/ earlier 1900's all silver concho necklace. Look at that incredible and heavy old natural patina.

The necklace contains 17 large silver conchos The conchos measure around 1-1/4" X 3/4" and consist of amazing silver sun patterns. What is so incredible about this piece is it can be worn as either a belt of a necklace. Late 1800's/ earlier 1900's. The length of the necklace measures around 29.

Sturdy 58.3grams no marks but tested as sterling silver great addition to your collection Origins and Early Influences. The Navajo owned concho belts long before they learned silversmithing.

Before the Navajo could make them, they would acquire concho belts from Southern Plains Indians through trade or looting. These early concho belts marked the genesis of a unique artistic expression in the Southwest. When the Navajo learned the art of silversmithing in the mid-19th century, their designs were a fusion of these Southern Plains belts and early Spanish and Mexican concho designs.

Today, the legacy of the concho belt endures as a beacon of Native American artistry and cultural heritage. Beyond its aesthetic allure, it serves as a bridge between past and present, connecting generations through its timeless beauty.

Even today, when a silversmith aims to showcase their finest work, whether for a judged show or a discerning client, they will craft a concho belt. For over 150 years, the concho belt remains the epitome of Southwestern Native American jewelry.