Sterling silver overlay pendant by Navajo silversmith Alex Sanchez. The 1” x 2 ½” pendant with a 1” bale features an appliqué dragonfly (water sign), hand (strength), bear (medicine), snake (rebirth), and spiral (generations). A ¼” x ½” Kingman Water Web turquoise compliments the overlay symbols. The reverse side is stamped with hearts.
The Kingman Turquoise Mine is one of the oldest producing Turquoise mines in North America. It was discovered by Native Americans over 1000 years ago. Kingman Turquoise is known for its beautiful blue color and the mine produces many variations of blue turquoise. The mine also produces turquoise with a wonderful "Birdseye" or "Water Web" matrix pattern along with beautiful Spiderweb matrix patterns.
Alex Sanchez, Navajo and Zuni, was born in 1969 in Mexican Springs, New Mexico. He is the younger brother of Myron Panteah and Brad Panteah. Alex is known for his petroglyph patterns in heavy gauge sterling silver. His work has an old vintage influence, using petroglyph symbols, along with a contemporary style.
About the artist
Alex Sanchez
Alex Sanchez, Navajo and Zuni, was born in 1969 in Mexican Springs, New Mexico. He is the younger brother of Myron Panteah and Brad Panteah. Alex is known for his petroglyph patterns in heavy gauge sterling silver. His work has an old vintage influence, using the traditional petroglyph symbols, along with a contemporary style.
Alex Sanchez is Navajo (Water Edge Clan) and Zuni. His brother Myron Panteah taught him to silversmith, and Alex has
been presenting his work in silver since 2001.
Alex believes his talent for design and fine craftsmanship is a gift from the Creator, and he is always striving to make
pieces that honor this gift.
He works with traditional native themes and subject matter, but in ways quite original and contemporary. His jewelry combines
human, animal and spirit symbols to create silver and stone collages that are striking, beautiful and intriguing, reflecting his sense of culture and pride.
