Here's a unique necklace, created by Navajo artist, James McCabe. James McCabe uses authentic old Mercury dime coins to create this necklace. Mercury dimes were minted from 1916 until 1946. The coins are commonly known by the misnomer "Mercury dimes", although they contain no mercury and although the figure on the coin is often thought to be the Roman god Mercury, is in fact a depiction of Liberty (a Winged Liberty Head design). The Mercury dime is considered to be one of the most visually appealing of all U.S. coins, and is highly sought after by collectors.

In addition to making jewelry, James is also a coin collector, which is what gave him the inspiration for these necklaces although Navajos have been using coins in their jewelry for many years.

The Mercury dime beads, which actually are two domed dimes bonded together, are formed using a very old Navajo technique in which the artist uses a mold to transform flat dimes into domed dimes. The beads are separated by robin's egg blue Sleeping Beauty turquoise rondel beads. An old 1921 U.S. Silver Dollar with a genuine turquoise stone above it serves as the centerpiece for this beautiful necklace.

The necklace measures 24-1/2 inches from end to end and 14 inches long from the back of the neck to the bottom of the silver dollar. We have one pair of matching old dime squash blossom earrings made by the same artist left in stock. Item #1244 which can be purchased when you add this necklace to your shopping cart.

Brand new and in perfect condition. Gift Box and Certificate of Authenticity included. Hallmarked 'JMc' and 'Navajo' inconspicuously on one of the cones.