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This unique, sterling silver and turquoise collar necklace was crafted by Frank Patania Sr. (1889-1964). This lovely necklace, shows the European influence of his designs with precise design work, seen and admired in much of his work.
The necklace measures 17" long with the center panel measuring 1 3/4" long by 1 1/4" tall. The hand-crafted silver beads were also made by Frank. It has 7 beautiful Blue Gem turquoise stone. one stone has matrix inclusions but is not a concern to the integrity of the necklace. A soft aged patina graces the entire necklace. Hallmarked with his FP and Thunderbird Shop mark.
Frank Patania Sr.'s was born in Messina, Italy in 1899, he followed the European tradition of apprenticeship in jewelry making. He was introduced to the work of the Native Americans in the 1920’s. He soon opened his first business called the Thunderbird Shop, located in Santa Fe, NM near the famous downtown plaza in 1927. Moving to Tucson for a second location in the 1930's, he ran both shops for the remainder of his life. Frank taught and employed Native American artist at both locations. Better known artists, such as Julian Lovato of the Santo Domingo pueblo in New Mexico and Arthur and Andy Rivera, along with many others.
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