The traditional tufa cast method was employed in the creation of a standout Turtle necklace by Joel Pajarito of Kewa Pueblo. His grandmother was renowned jeweler Mary C. Lovato and many of his family members including his father Anthony Lovato, are important jewelers. Tufa casting is a labor-intensive process that includes the tricky aspect of visualizing your final product in reverse, as it is carved into the stone. The tufa molds can only be used once, as they are destroyed in the removal of the cooled silver piece. Each earth-loving turtle station cradles either vibrant spiny oyster shell or rich sugilite cabochons. Beneficial rain clouds and fertile corn elements adorn the stations as well. Little curved tails and eyes also add sweet character to each reptile. A lovely hook and eye silver closure unites bold jet, fine heishe and turquoise beads. Each turtle is about 1 3/4" long and 1 1/4" wide. The collectible necklace is about 22" long. Signed by the artist.
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