Peterson Johnson Navajo Sterling Silver & Turquoise Hair Barrette
An exceptional Navajo sterling silver and turquoise hair barrette by Peterson Johnson, distinguished by its elaborate silverwork and strong sculptural presence.
The slightly curved silver body is centred by a large turquoise cabochon, beautifully coloured in vivid blue-green with contrasting dark matrix. The stone is held in a finely serrated bezel and surrounded by an intricate, symmetrical composition of handcrafted flowers, feathers, leaves and flowing silver scrolls.
The broad scalloped silver ground is decorated with finely incised radiating lines, creating depth behind the applied ornament. The combination of polished highlights and darker recessed areas emphasizes the extraordinary precision of the workmanship.
The reverse is clearly signed:
PETERSON JOHNSON
NAVAJO
STERLING
A substantial and highly decorative piece of Navajo silverwork that functions both as a wearable hair ornament and as a collectible example of contemporary Native American jewelry.
Materials & Construction
- Sterling silver
- Turquoise cabochon with dark matrix
- Serrated silver bezel
- Applied silver flowers
- Hand-worked feathers and leaves
- Silver wire scrollwork
- Engraved and stamped details
- Scalloped silver backing
- Curved construction
- Hair barrette mechanism
- Signed Peterson Johnson / Navajo / Sterling
Dimensions
Weight: 57 g
Length: 12 cm / 4.72 in
Maximum width: 4.3 cm / 1.69 in
Form: Curved
The substantial weight and generous dimensions give the piece considerable presence.
Artist & Origin
Artist: Peterson Johnson
Cultural affiliation: Navajo (Diné)
Origin: Southwestern United States
Material: Sterling silver and turquoise
Period: Late 20th century / contemporary Native American jewelry
Born in 1956, Peterson Johnson began working in silver in 1976. A self-taught Navajo silversmith, he became known for exceptionally precise workmanship and richly detailed interpretations of traditional Navajo jewelry.
His meticulous approach has reportedly earned him the nickname “The Machine” among fellow artists. His work has received awards in the American Southwest and is collected for its distinctive combination of technical precision and elaborate floral and feather motifs.
This barrette is particularly representative of that approach: the ornament is not simply applied decoration, but a carefully constructed composition in which feathers, flowers, scrolls and the central turquoise form a balanced sculptural whole.
Turquoise
The large central cabochon has an attractive blue-green colour with contrasting dark matrix, giving each area of the stone an individual appearance.
The stone has been left in a relatively natural, irregular outline rather than cut into a perfectly standardized geometric form, complementing the organic character of the surrounding silverwork.
Condition
Very good vintage condition.
The sterling silver shows light surface marks and minor signs of previous handling consistent with age and use. The recessed areas retain darker oxidation that emphasizes the relief of the decoration.
The turquoise is securely set and presents natural-looking matrix and surface variations.
The decorative silver elements appear complete.
Wearing & Collection
Designed as a functional hair barrette, the gently curved form follows the shape of the head while the large silver composition creates a dramatic focal point.
At 12 cm long and 57 g, this is a substantial piece of jewelry rather than a small everyday hair clip.
Its clear artist's signature, elaborate construction and strong visual identity also make it particularly suitable for a collection devoted to Navajo jewelry, Native American silverwork or Southwestern studio jewelry.
Reference
Further information about Peterson Johnson and his work can be found in the article:
“Navajo Silversmith Peterson Johnson's Work is Unique and Amazing” – Native American Jewelry Tips
- Dimensions :
- Poids :
- Pays d'origine : Etats Unis
- Lieu de production :
- Culture : Native American
- Période de production :
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Veuillez noter :
Ce bijou est vintage et a été porté. Des rayures et des traces d'usure peuvent être visibles. Il a été nettoyé afin de lui redonner autant que possible son éclat d'origine.
Expédition:
Toutes les expéditions internationales sont suivies. Les bijoux seront envoyés soigneusement emballés et empaquetés.
Clients hors Union Européenne :
Les droits de douane, les taxes douanières, la TVA et tous les frais supplémentaires ne sont pas inclus dans le prix de l'article. Les acheteurs sont responsables de tous les frais de douane/droits d'importation appliqués dans leur pays
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