My Signature Piece

Southwestern Desert Necklace

Tina's Sedona's embellished creations begin with my desire to embroider beads around ancient rocks my husband harvested during his hikes in Southern Utah where we lived for several years. Their colors always captivate me and push me to find ways to enhance the display of their natural beauty..

I was inspired to bead this original piece to reflect my experiences in Southwestern living spanning 2019 to 2021. When I face this necklace head-on, I follow my transition from the Southeastern edge of the Mojave Desert in Utah to the Sonoran Desert in Tucson, Arizona. Southern Utah's chilling majesty with rocky heights and extreme colors and textures gives way to Southern Arizona's warm colored sunsets and a diverse, vibrant culture. I am home.

Raw jasper stones from Southern Utah take center stage on this adjustable necklace infused with metal, glass, wood, coral, and cotton. Sponge coral strands and wood connect the piece with a lead free copper closure hammered by the artist, and enhanced with handmade perle cotton roses braided by the artist. The underside desert surface is bound in soft flexible suede. The completed necklace weighs just 7 -1/2 ounces.

Despite the volume of glass beads of many colors, this is not a flashy necklace. Its beads absorb light in a subtle way. I call this wearable art a "story" necklace. If you've ever spent time in the Southwest U.S. then this necklace may represent your personal experience. I have my own narrative for this majestic piece of art. With willingness and a bit of introspection--you too could find one nestled in its artistic body.

Features

Original design by Tina Levy, Tucson, AZ
Triangular Body: 8" wide x 9" x 9"
Length: all measurements approx.
Outer Length: 38" plus 4 inch extender chain
Inner Length : 29" plus 4 inch extender chain
Weighs 7.5 oz
Velvet lined gift box included