There’s a certain kind of necklace you expect to see resting quietly in a glass case somewhere along old Route 66, oxidized silver, heavy turquoise, and the quiet confidence of good Navajo work. This piece by Navajo silversmith Matthew Charley carries that same presence.
Strung with traditional Navajo silver pearls, hand-formed sterling beads known for their soft oxidized finish and distinctive seam , the necklace has the weight and rhythm collectors look for in classic Southwestern jewelry. Silver pearls have long been a staple of Navajo adornment, prized for their understated shine and ability to frame a pendant without overpowering it.
At the center hangs a bold turquoise pendant set in sterling silver. The stone shows a striking spiderweb matrix across a bright blue field, surrounded by detailed hand-stamped silver work radiating outward in a sunburst pattern. The design reflects the old trading post aesthetic often seen in Gallup pawn jewelry, while remaining distinctly modern in execution.