High Grade Mother of Pearl Pendant Necklace by Bill Yellowmule

A luminous example of contemporary Native American jewelry, this one-of-a-kind pendant necklace by Bill Yellowmule pairs a substantial piece of high-grade mother of pearl with a finely detailed sterling silver setting. The naturally irregular, softly triangular shell displays exceptional depth, brilliant luster, and flashes of pink, green, gold, and lavender as it catches the light. A delicate beaded border frames the shell, allowing its natural beauty to remain the focal point.

High-grade mother of pearl is prized for its intense nacre, smooth surface, depth of color, and exceptional iridescence. Nacre—the same material that gives pearls their glow—is built up in layers inside certain mollusk shells, and thicker, more evenly developed nacre can produce a richer, more dimensional play of color. Large, clean pieces with strong luster and distinctive natural coloration are especially desirable for fine jewelry. This pendant's substantial shell has the luminous, almost liquid quality that makes exceptional mother of pearl so sought after.

Bill Yellowmule is a Pawnee and Crow artist and a member of Yellowmule Designs, an award-winning family arts and crafts business. His work is known for its meticulous craftsmanship and distinctive use of materials. 

The pendant is suspended from a 24-inch sterling silver rope-style chain, whose tightly woven, textured links add subtle sparkle while complementing the intricate silverwork of the pendant. A lobster clasp provides a secure closure. The back is hallmarked with a paw symbol, "STERLING," and "BYM" in script, identifying Yellowmule's work.

• Bill Yellowmule, Pawnee and Crow
• Sterling silver
• High-grade mother of pearl
• Pendant: 2" high × 1 1/4" wide × 1/4" deep
• Chain: 24" end to end
• Textured rope-style sterling silver chain
• Lobster clasp
• Hallmarked with paw symbol, "STERLING," and "BYM" in script