Turquoise and Clam Shell Heishi Santo Domingo Necklace

Our Turquoise and Clam Shell Heishi Santo Domingo Necklace is a beautiful reflection of the enduring artistry of Santo Domingo (Kewa) Pueblo jewelry makers, where natural materials are transformed into timeless expressions of culture and beauty. Multiple strands of hand-cut clam shell heishi are accented with vibrant turquoise beads, creating a graceful flow of color that evokes desert skies, sacred waters, and sunlit landscapes of the Southwest. The elegant layering and soft contrast between creamy white shell and vivid turquoise give this necklace a sense of effortless sophistication while honoring generations of Native craftsmanship.

For centuries, both turquoise and shell have held profound importance throughout the Southwest. Turquoise has long been revered by the Navajo and other Native peoples as a stone of protection, healing, prosperity, and spiritual connection. Often called a bridge between the sky and the earth, turquoise is believed to bring harmony, strength, and blessings to the wearer. Clam shell, gathered from coastal waters and traded across ancient Indigenous trade routes, symbolizes life, water, renewal, and abundance. Together, these materials represent the balance of land and sea, earth and sky, creating a necklace rich in both beauty and meaning.

The art of heishi making is one of the oldest jewelry traditions in North America and remains closely associated with the Santo Domingo Pueblo. Each shell bead is individually cut, drilled, strung, and polished by hand, a labor-intensive process requiring extraordinary patience and skill. The carefully placed turquoise accents create rhythm and movement throughout the strands, while the layered design allows the necklace to drape elegantly and naturally. Every element reflects the dedication and artistry passed down through generations of Pueblo artisans.

Our founder Jean Marie personally selected this necklace because she was immediately captivated by its quiet elegance and timeless versatility. She loves how the luminous clam shell and vibrant turquoise complement one another, creating a piece that feels both grounded and uplifting. To her, this necklace tells a story of ancient trade routes, sacred materials, and the remarkable hands that continue these traditions today. More than jewelry, it is a wearable connection to heritage, artistry, and the enduring spirit of the Southwest.

Number of Strands: 4

Length 17"

Made in USA