Here's a classic vintage southwestern copper and turquoise necklace, made by the famous Bell Trading Post of ABQ, New Mexico for the tourist trade, from the 1950's-1960's. The main pendant measures 2 inch by 1-3/4 inches and weighs about 17 grams. Including the 29 inch copper chain, the entire necklace weighs about 38 grams. Hallmarked SOLID COPPER surrounding the image of a bell. These necklaces were VERY popular with the Route 66 tourists back in the day!
The Bell Trading Post was founded in 1935 by Jack Michelson in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It was named "Bell" because Jack's wife Mildred's maiden name was Bell. Coincidentally my maiden name is also Bell, hence my interest in Bell jewelry. The name was changed to Sunbell Corp. in 1972. It produced quality tourist/Fred Harvey era pieces made by Native Americans. From Billie Hougart's hallmark book: "Early production focused on handmade jewelry, but post--WWII production shifted to quality tourist items presented as Southwestern in their advertisements". The majority of jewelry made was made from sterling silver, turquoise and copper. The Bell Trading Post went out of business in the late 1980's. The hallmarks are an image of a bell and a bell hanging from a post. The hallmark on this pendant is the bell with the words SOLID COPPER encircling the bell.