Concho pendants offer a timeless tribute to Native American artistry, blending symbolism, tradition, and stunning design into a single wearable piece. Initially inspired by the concha or shell shape, these pendants have evolved into striking pieces that often showcase bold stamping, repoussé work, and natural stones. Concho pendants reflect a rich cultural heritage, with every piece telling a story deeply rooted in history. At SilverTQ, we feature a carefully curated collection of concho pendants, handmade by renowned Native American artists.
Understanding the Cultural and Historical Significance of Concho Pendants
The concho pendant holds a meaningful place in Native American cultures, particularly among Southwestern tribes such as the Navajo and the Zuni. Conchos originated as round silver ornaments hammered from coins and worn as adornments on belts in the late 1800s, but their designs evolved to become more complex.
As concho belts became popular, they eventually gave rise to other types of concho jewelry. Concho pendants were more than decorative; tribes used them to signify status, identity, and connection. The patterns stamped into each concho often carry symbolic meaning, representing protection, nature, and spirituality.
Explore Our Concho Pendants
Our concho pendant collection is a celebration of traditional Native American silversmithing, modern design, and the natural beauty of turquoise.
Concho Pendant With Sonoran Gold Turquoise
Concho pendants with Sonoran gold turquoise combine warm green hues with golden matrix patterns, creating a vibrant and eye-catching centerpiece. These pendants are handmade by Navajo silversmiths who specialize in traditional techniques such as hand-stamping and tufa casting. The designs vary from minimalist concho patterns to more elaborate floral and sunburst motifs. Concho-style pendants combine traditional silversmithing with the natural charm of Sonoran gold turquoise, yielding pieces that are elegant yet deeply rooted in tradition.
Concho Pendant With Natural Golden Hill Turquoise
Golden Hill turquoise is known for its soft periwinkle blue shade and light brown matrix, making it one of the most sought-after stones in modern Native American jewelry. Our Golden Hill turquoise concho pendants are handmade by Navajo artisans, highlighting the unique stone through stamp and saw work, hand-cut bezels, and detailed appliqué. These pendants often represent symmetrical and rounded concho shapes, which echo the style's historical roots while allowing the turquoise to take center stage.
Kingman Turquoise Concho Pendant
Kingman turquoise boasts a vivid sky-blue color with a distinctive black or brown matrix, giving each concho pendant a dramatic visual appeal. Our collection features Kingman concho pendants handmade by accomplished Navajo artists, whose jewelry making involves silverwork, traditional stamping, and rustic finishes. These pendants bring together heritage and individuality in every piece.
Other Collections
In addition to concho-style pendants, our pendant collection includes pieces that incorporate coral, onyx, and spiny oyster shells. You will also find reversible pendants, multi-stone arrangements, and pendants featuring both round and oval concho shapes. Whether you are looking for a bold pendant with contrasting stones or a classic silver concho pendant with subtle details, this collection offers something that will match your personal style.
Featured Artists
Our featured artisans have spent years mastering the traditional techniques of silversmithing while bringing their personal touch to each piece they create. Learn more about some of these artists below.
Calvin Martinez
Calvin Martinez is a highly respected Navajo silversmith known for his strong, traditional designs and expertise in tufa casting. His concho pendants are known for their weight, symmetry, and timeless appeal. Calvin often incorporates natural patterns that reflect Navajo symbolism. His approach is rooted in maintaining the purity of Native American jewelry traditions while continuing to evolve as an artist.
Hank Vandever
Hank Vandever is a Navajo silversmith known for his bold designs and expert use of natural turquoise. His concho pendants stand out for their clean shapes, deep stamping, and rustic finishes. Hank lets the materials speak for themselves, often choosing high-grade stones to pair with classic Navajo designs.
Kevin Billah
Kevin Billah is a skilled Navajo silversmith whose work features traditional concho designs with modern details. His use of natural turquoise stones and sterling silver creates a vibrant contrast, often enhanced by precise stamping and repoussé. Kevin's design philosophy centers around honoring his heritage while embracing innovation. His concho pendants are known for their balance, proportion, and expressive stones.
Tips for Styling Concho Pendants
Concho pendants can easily become a signature piece in your jewelry collection. They are versatile enough to wear when dressing up or going casual because they add a beautiful touch to any look.
- Choose a turquoise hue that complements your wardrobe. Green and gold matrix stones are earthy, while bright blues are classic.
- Larger concho pendants work well as statement pieces with open necklines or neutral colors.
- Pair a silver concho pendant with matching silver earrings or cuffs to create a cohesive look.
- Try wearing multiple turquoise stones; contrasting stones add visual interest.
- Wear concho pendants as layering pieces with other chains for a bohemian look.
- For everyday wear, opt for a smaller concho pendant on a shorter chain to strike a balance between comfort and elegance.
Shop Concho Pendants at SilverTQ
Bring history, meaning, and personal style together with a handmade concho pendant from SilverTQ. Explore our magnificent collection and find the piece for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What materials are used in your concho pendants?
Our concho pendants are handmade using high-quality materials, primarily sterling silver, turquoise, coral, onyx, and spiny oyster shell. Many pieces feature turquoise varieties such as Sonoran gold, Golden Hill, and Kingman, each selected for its respective colors and character. Some pendants may also include accents in 14K or 18K gold.
How should I care for my concho pendant?
Gently wipe turquoise with a soft, dry cloth to remove oils and dust after wearing. Avoid using harsh chemicals and silver cleaners since they can damage the surface. Store your pendant in a soft pouch or a jewelry box, keeping it separate from other pieces to prevent scratches and tarnish.
Are your concho pendants signed or hallmarked by the artists?
Most of the collection’s concho pendants are signed or hallmarked by the Native American artist who made them. These marks are usually stamped on the back of the pendant and may include the artist's initials, full name, or a unique symbol. Some pieces also feature tribal affiliation marks or sterling quality stamps.
