Description: Here is a highly collectible Preston Monongye necklace. It is a unique textured choker style necklace with a handmade chain (making it easy to wear at different lengths). The sides and pendant are tufa cast with the pendant featuring a bear paw with turquoise, coral, onyx, and shell inlay. This is a stunning necklace that was beautifully crafted. It is made from sterling silver. Tufa casting is a process where the design is carved into tufa stone. Both the obverse and reverse of the image are carved to form a mold. Molten silver or gold is quickly poured into the mold to create the piece. Finishing involves removing slag, then adornments are added and the piece is polished.
Maker: Hallmarked with a peyote bird, with a P in the middle on a plate. Preston Monongye (1927-1987; Mission/Hopi-adopted). Active 1960s-1987. Preston was a master artisan adopted by the Monongye family. He was also known as a master innovated of modern Indian jewelry. He was a master of tufa casting.
Approx. Age: Circa 1960s.
Size: It fits approx. 16 inches around the neck. The pendant is an additional 2-5/8 inches wide X 1 inches long and it weighs 85.1g.
Condition: Good for its age. Normal wear and minor imperfections expected on used and vintage items.
Please look closely at the pictures as they are an important part of our description.
