Philbert Begay, Fire Opal Pin / Pendant

Description

Philbert Begay, Navajo, Rare Black Fire Opal Pin / Pendant

Philbert Begay is the son of noted silversmith Richard Begay.

This is a large Yei figure. The Yei is a Navajo diety, a symbol of prosperity. 

The rare, Black Opal gem measures 1 1/2" long by 1/2" wide. The Opal fires both green and blue with the slightest light. It is an incredible gem.

The figures face is Ammonite. The color is a fiery, red orange.

I bought the gemstones directly from an owner of the Koroit Opal mines in Australia.  I gave the gemstone to Philbert, who created the entire piece.

It was handmade with multiple layers of heavy gauge Silver. The designs were hand sawed using an ultra fine, artists saw blade. Also seen on the lower silver level is a technique called Granulation.  Silver dust is bonded to the silver.

This Philbert Begay Silver Black Opal and Ammonite Pendant / Pin measures 3 1/2" x 1 1/2"

There on the reverse, at the top of the head, below the feathers, is a small loop for a fine chain so it can be worh as a pendant / necklace.

The large Opal is 1 1/2" x 3/4"