Necklace - Multistone "Painted Desert" Graduated Heishi with Large Serpentine by Lester Abeyta (Santo Domingo/Kewa)

Lester Abeyta has used graduated serpentine, shell, stabilized turquoise and pipestone that are handcut and shaped to form this bold and beautiful necklace.  At the center is a large serpentine stone.   The beads are cut and drilled and then shaped by using a grinding machine and is finished with a sterling silver clasp.

Lester Abeyta is known for his traditional stone and shell jewelry that reflects ancient techniques and styles, yet is fashionable in today’s contemporary world.  He learned from his parents, Richard and Delia Abeyta, using the traditional pump drill, and sandstone for rolling and polishing with beeswax, tallow and deer hide. Today he uses electric tools, working at his workshop in his home along side his father and his sister Sharon.

Length 20", Center Stone 3" x  2"