Southwestern Mother of Pearl and Turquoise Eagle Necklace

This is a vintage Southwestern-style statement necklace featuring a large eagle center pendant crafted from multiple biological and mineral materials. The eagle's body and outspread wings are carved from iridescent white mother of pearl (nacre), displaying characteristic luster and chatoyancy. The bird features a distinctive turquoise stone inlay at the head, representing the beak or crown. The construction utilizes silver-tone metal hinges that connect the wings to the central body, allowing for movement and a better fit against the wearer's collarbone. Detailed feather striations are expertly etched into the mother of pearl wings. Small metal talons or decorative elements are mounted on the body. The piece is attached to a sterling silver or silver-plated paperclip style chain. The overall craftsmanship suggests a mid-to-late 20th-century Native American (likely Zuni or Navajo) or Southwestern artisan influence. The condition appears fair to good, with some visible oxidation on the metal components and slight wear consistent with age, though no major chips or cracks are immediately apparent in the delicate shell work.