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 gem quality
Number 8 black Spiderweb Turquoise and beveling each stone to add another dimension
to the design. In addition to the main necklace this piece features, beautiful
hand crafted heavy silver beads, which complement the silver drops of the
necklace. This necklace is featured in the publication, author Gregory Schaaf, American Indian Jewelry I, pg. 49, under collectors section.
The central inlaid section measures 3” wide by 2 ½” long,
with the additional 1 1/8” long by 1 1/8” wide link top designs. The total
length is 22” long and can be adjusted to a shorter length by request. Not
hallmarked, but has traders code.