Hand rolled Salmon Coral beads by noted bead smith Albert Lee. The tube shaped coral beads are ¼” to ¾”. Seven strands of coral are interspaced with silver beads.
The necklace is 18” from each end of the heavy gauge Sterling Silver tips.
The end pieces are stamped with "Albert Lee of Shiprock NM” on one tip and an image of Shiprock on the other.
Bead maker Albert Lee is from Shiprock, New Mexico. He is the son of award winning silversmith Alfred Lee, Sr. Alfred combines traditional styles with contemporary, creating his own distinctive style. He is known for using only the finest of high quality stones.
About the artist
Alfred Lee Jr.
Alfred Lee Jr. (Chuck) is a sixth generation Navajo jeweler with a nationwide reputation. He and his brother Albert were inspired and mentored by their father Alfred Lee Sr., who is himself an award winning artist. Shiprock, New Mexico is home to the Lee brothers. It is there that they go about their business of creating, necklaces, bracelets, Concho belts, rings and squash blossom necklaces with a blend of traditional and contemporary Navajo designs.
The highest quality turquoise, coral, lapis and sugailite are used with dazzling affect in settings of sterling silver and gold. Their creations are statement pieces, distinctive and rich. Alfred cuts and tumbles the stones himself using only the highest grade stones. His stones were featured in promotions for Ralph Lauren’s fragrance, “Pure Turquoise.”
Alfred is gracious and most willing to share his knowledge of the techniques used in his work. He has conducted training for the staff of the famed Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona about the different types of turquoise. He is certified by the Navajo tribe to appraise jewelry and rugs.
The Lee’s have carried on the family tradition and business with a reputation that has carried them nationwide.
