Frank Dishta Squash Blossom Necklace (1950s)

This AMAZINGLY DETAILED CHANNEL INLAY SQUASH BLOSSOM NECKLACE by FRANK DISHTA was made circa 1950’s. Frank Distha was one of the First Zuni Silversmiths to work with C.G. Wallace and the FIRST to do Channel Inlay in this Old Style. His pieces are highly regarded and hard to find. They are easily distinguished by the use of small smooth CIRCULAR and TEARDROP pieces.  A similar Distha piece to this one is shown in Schaaf’s book American Indian Jewelry Volume II.  

The necklace itself is 24 inches long. Made of Sterling Silver and Turquoise this piece weighs 106 grams. The Meticulously Handmade Beads are 7.3 mm.