JSW964 Turquoise Cross

Hand stamped sterling silver cross consisting of six New Lander turquoise cabochons. The 2” x 3” cross was created by Navajo silversmith Veronica Yellowhorse and Walter Stone. A 3/8” bale makes a total length of 3 1/2”.

The New Lander turquoise is a very beautiful stone. Some of it looks very much like Old Lander Blue, and some has the appearance of Variscite. It is mined across the valley from the Old Lander Blue Mine.

   Veronica Yellowhorse is from the Keeani clan, which means “Towering Light”, of the Navajo tribe.  She grew up in Gallup, New Mexico and now lives with her family in Albuquerque.   Her families’ last name originates from Fort Yellowhorse located in Arizona.  Her grandmother was a Navajo rug weaver and her grandfather was Irish.  She first learned jewelry making from her famous Step-Father Louis D. McCabe, her mother Betty Yellowhorse, and her Aunt Artie Yellowhorse.  Veronica has been a full-time artisan now since 1989.  Her cousins, Bryon and Alvin Yellowhorse, are also well-known artists.

      Veronica derives her inspiration from the natural and high quality stones that she works with.  She’s passionate about color and allows the stones to speak to her.  She also gives God credit for giving her all of her creative ideas.  She lights up when she talks about each one of the pieces she’s made with incredible care and intention.  She has a clear passion for making beautiful creations! She often works with Walter Stone creating fabulous crosses.