Frank Vacit (1915-1999) was one of the most talented and
recognized Zuni jewelers of his era. His career with inlay began in 1932 as he
created jewelry for well-known Zuni Trader C.G. Wallace. He pioneered the
channel inlay technique as well as creating pieces with mosaic inlay. He worked
into the early 1960’s and became a master of his craft.
This beautifully designed necklace, attributed to him, is a
classic Vacit design. He has crafted this piece to display the Number 8 Turquoise and beveling each stone to add another dimension
to the design. In addition to the main necklace this piece features, beautiful
hand crafted silver link chain. A similar necklace is featured in the publication, author Gregory Schaaf, American Indian Jewelry I, pg. 49, under collectors section.
The central inlaid section measures 3 3/8” wide by 3” long,
with the additional 1 1/2” long by 1 1/2” wide link top designs. The total
length is 19 1/2” long and can be adjusted to a shorter length. Not
hallmarked, which was common on Vacits early work.