VTG Native American Silver Turquoise Bead Necklace Isleta Cross Dragonfly

This is a vintage Native American necklace made of sterling silver and turquoise beads. The pendant is the Pueblo Cross, the Isleta Cross is a very old Pueblo design associated with the Isleta Pueblo. The double-bar cross design is said to have originated with the Moors and Spaniards. To the Pueblo Indians the double-bar cross was very similar to the dragonfly symbol of their culture, so many Puebloans incorporated the Isleta cross in their jewelry. By the early twentieth century, Pueblo artisans made elegant necklaces with a large central cross as a pendant and smaller crosses along the sides interspersed with beads. The Isleta Pueblo is located in central New Mexico, on the east bank of the Rio Grande south of Albuquerque. It is on the same site as when it was discovered in 1540. It was the seat of the Franciscan mission of San Antonio de Isleta This is a very unique piece and a must have for any collection. Am open to offers as I am not an expert and this piece has not been appraised. It comes from a retired long time native jewelry dealer in New Mexico and was originally purchased by her at the reservation she said probably mid 1900s or so. Please view pictures ask questions they are both considered part of description. If you need more pictures or anything please let us know as we strive for you to be pleased with your purchase.