Description

This is a lovely example of the iridescent creature that flit close to water sources – the dragonfly.

Vernon Begaye is a Navajo jeweler whose individual vision sets him apart from tradition, while retaining the cultural origins that inspired his talent.

Vern’s beautiful dragonfly is made from semi-precious stones of green aventurine, lapis, rhodonite, and Royston turquoise set on a body of sterling silver.  He has carefully cut each stone so it will fit snugly into each straight edge bezel. Each of the stamped wings are of sterling silver and are tipped with beautiful green aventurine. Aventurine is a form of quartz whose mineral inclusions that give it a shimmering or glistening effect.  The center of the body is a tear shaped cabochon of lapis lazuli. The length of the dragonfly body is set with rhodonite and enhanced with Royston turquoise.

The bail on the reverse side is a hook large enough to slide a chain through. Vern has also included a clasp on the back so this dragonfly can be worn as a pin of a necklace.

The Zuni word for dragonfly is Shumak’olo:wa.  A dragonfly is believed to be the messenger who carries prayers to Spirit World. The double-winged form of the dragonfly is sometimes referred to as the Pueblo Cross. You will find this symbol on pottery, in jewelry, and in the art of the Pueblo People. Dragonflies are found around water and always signifies life, for where there are dragonflies, there is water; where there is water, there is life.

Vernon has hand-fabricated and stamped this beautiful pendant. The details of this piece make it not only interesting but wearable as well.  Remarkable in its detail and design, this dragonfly is a wonderful piece of wearable art by Vern Begaye.

Condition: Excellent – original condition – new.
Provenance: Acquired from the artist.