Squash Blossom Necklace & Matching Pendant Earrings

This beautiful squash blossom and naja necklace by Zuni artist Dan Simplicio has matching pendant earrings !

The classic design was created between 1945 and 1955, acquired by the original owner from Mr. Simplicio.  It is rate to find an intact set of this vintage in perfect condition.

The leaves are cut from a single stamp "leaf".  This is the key working stamp used for attribution of maker because it was carved by Dan Simplicio himself.  The bezels are hand cut with scalloped edges.

Well loved and well worn, this blossom leaf and berry delight is ready to be the treasure of another long and storied lifetime !

A Zuni jeweler who sometimes collaborated with Leekya Deyse, Lee Edaakie, Teddie Weahkee and Leo Poblano, Dan Simplicio was most active creating metal art between the 1920's through the late 1950's. Simplicio utilized gold as early as 1931, which may make him one of the first Zuni jewelers to work in gold.

He produced both fabricated and sandcast jewelry. Dan employed setting techniques to include nuggets, cluster formats, mosaic work and channel inlay. His uncle, Juan Dideos is acknowledged as Dan's main instructor.

His work is cited in every major publication chronicling 20th century Zuni jewelers. Dan's jewelry was included in the 2002 exhibition staged at the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture in Santa Fe "Jewels of the Southwest".