This is a Zuni dead pawn necklace by Rose Tekela. This thunderbird inspired piece is created with Mother of Pearl, Yellow Mussel Shell, Coral, Sleeping Beauty Mine Turquoise and Polished Jet all crafted in Sterling Silver. This piece is signed by Rose noted as RT and is stamped Sterling.
The large center thunderbird measures approximately 2 11/16 inches tall by 3 1/16 inches wide at the tallest and widest points. Moving up the necklace, the next four side by side Thunderbirds measure approximately 2 1/8 inches tall by 1 5/8 inches wide at the tallest and widest point. The final pair at the top of the necklace are 1 7/8 inches tall by 2 inches wide at the tallest and widest points. The inside neckline of this piece measures approximately 32 1/2 inches from clasp to clasp. Total weight of this necklace is 231.12 grams.
The term Pawn refers to selling jewelry or other personal items for cash. It can also mean exchanging jewelry or other personal items for cash by using the item as collateral for a loan. If the piece used for collateral is not claimed by an agreed upon date, then the item becomes Dead Pawn and the pawn shop becomes the owner of the item and can choose to sell the item to reclaim the cost of the money lent. The term Dead Pawn does not indicate the age of the jewelry. Dead Pawn jewelry can be very old, newly made or anywhere in between.
SKU: 227210