Zuni 3-Strand Multi-Stone Heishi-Style and Bird Fetish Necklace, c. 1960s, 28" length (J91620A-0221-009)

55.7g, 28" length. Stones include turquoise, spiny oyster, serpentine, coral, shell, and jet. The word "heishi" means "shell," although today it is often used to describe the cut style of beads which are small, flat, disc-shapes. It is not uncommon to hear the phrase "turquoise heishi," for example. Acquired from the collection of well-known silversmith and goldsmith, Frank Patania, Jr. Patania acquired this necklace from Oscar Branson around 1970-80.