Pearl & Royston Turquoise Heishi Loop Earrings by Teller Indian Jewelry

The long, open silhouette of these earrings gives a classic Southwestern beadwork technique a fresh, elegant profile. Handcrafted by Navajo artists Mary and Everett Teller, each earring features strands of dark heishi beads punctuated by luminous pearls, green Royston Turquoise, and polished sterling silver accents. The combination of earthy color and soft luster makes them an especially versatile addition to a Western jewelry collection.

Heishi beads are a longstanding Southwestern beadmaking tradition, particularly associated with Kewa Pueblo (formerly Santo Domingo Pueblo) in New Mexico. The Keres word heishi means “shell bead,” and the technique traditionally involves cutting, drilling, grinding, and polishing very small pieces of shell or stone into thin, uniform beads. Heishi strands have been made in the Southwest for thousands of years, and turquoise, coral, shell, and other natural materials are still used by contemporary Native artists.

The Royston Turquoise featured in these earrings comes from the historic Royston mining district in central Nevada, near Tonopah. Turquoise mining in the district was formally recorded beginning in 1902, when the Royal Blue Mine began producing; the area has been worked intermittently ever since. Royston Turquoise is especially recognizable for its range of blue to green hues and naturally occurring matrix, created as turquoise formed in altered volcanic rock.

Softly lustrous pearls provide a beautiful contrast to the earthy turquoise and dark heishi. Their smooth surfaces and natural variation add a refined element to the rustic Southwestern palette.

Mary and Everett Teller are self-taught Navajo silversmiths who have been creating jewelry for more than two decades. Working together, they incorporate natural turquoise, coral, shell, lapis, onyx, and other stones into clean-lined designs, often complemented by their recognizable hand-stamped storm-pattern work. Their jewelry has been shown in galleries and prestigious Native art events, including the Heard Museum and Santa Fe Indian Market.

• Royston Turquoise, pearl, heishi beads, and sterling silver
• Handcrafted by Navajo artists Mary and Everett Teller
• 2 1/4" long
• 7/8" wide