SYLVESTER & FRIEDA SANTIAGO HOPI / ZUNI TURQUOISE SILVER NECKLACE / EARRINGS SET

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SYLVESTER & FRIEDA SANTIAGO HOPI / ZUNI TURQUOISE SILVER NECKLACE / EARRINGS SET:
$699.99

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From a Tucson estate some years ago and a publication worthy example of their craft is this exceedingly attractive vintage Sylvester and Frieda Santiago Zuni / Hopi sterling silver necklace with five (5) lunate shadow box pendants and matching post back lunate dangle earrings. Each ornamental element is embellished en suite with turquoise sets and silver drop decor - construction features fully indicative of the skill and aesthetic sensibilities of the well referenced duo. The five (5) linked shadow box ornaments and companion earring dangles commendably reflect Sylvester\'s particular artistry and Zuni heritage , while the technical silver work is demonstrative of Frieda\'s skill - their combined effort resulting in these wearable artworks. I believe the set was likely crafted during the 1950\'s or possibly early 1960\'s. Sylvester (1911-1993) married Frieda (1913-1989, Hopi and taught by Willie Coin) in 1933, working as a team until failing eyesight forced her retirement around 1964. There is a clear corn mark with \"Z\" struck to the back of the central necklace ornament for absolute crafting provenance. Further support is provided by the diagnostic chain configuration as proper for a Santiago necklace - in fact exactly as shown on Page 102 of Pat and Kim Messier\'s \"Reassessing Hallmarks of Native Southwest Jewelry\". This lovely pairing would have been a \"statement\" made by some upper tier Tucson society fashionista when worn about at social functions in its day - someone whose taste was as impeccable as her chosen adornment. Weight is good for the form at about 29.6 total grams on my portable digital scale - that\'s 23.4 grams for the necklace and 6.2 grams for the earrings. Condition is quite fine with a lovely aura of time to the silver surfaces from long storage. I have avoided any urge to clean anything to accommodate those who prefer things that way (an easy enough task for the winner if eventually so inclined). I\'m hoping the beauty here is evident, but will address the cleaning job myself and re-shoot photos if that does not prove out. The turquoise sets looks great, and the necklace chain and clasp are good to go. The earring posts and clutches are likewise ready for service. All typical and expected and in this case minor signs of previous occasion ornamental duty , here simply serve as more evidence of their treasured keeping. A look at these pics should give a good idea of appearance and condition. Size of the necklace is about 16 3/4 in. long measured in a straight line (it is actually just a smidge longer due to the lunate curves of the pendant ornaments). The central lunate pendant is about 1 11/16 horizontal including the integral loops and 3/4 in. vertical. The earrings are each about 1 13/32 in. on the dangle including the ball dangle supports. The lunettes themselves are about 1 3/16 in. vertical. Yes, this ensemble will be noticed when worn about. I don\'t know what else need be said, so there you are.

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