Turquoise and silver lizard pendant (not authenticated)

This item is a handcrafted pendant featuring a large oval turquoise stone set in a metallic bezel, likely sterling silver based on visual characteristics and natural tarnish. The turquoise matrix displays a vibrant blue-green color with mottled dark and light inclusions throughout the surface. Clinging to the left side of the large central stone is a detailed dimensional silver lizard or gecko figure, positioned as if climbing upward toward a small round turquoise cabochon set above its head. The entire assembly connects via a simple tapered silver bail at the top. The metal components show noticeable tarnish and patina, particularly around the bail, bezel edges, and the crevices of the lizard figurine, consistent with older or vintage silver jewelry that has not been recently polished. There are no maker's marks, hallmarks, or signatures immediately visible on the front of the pendant. The design elements and materials are visually consistent with Southwestern Native American or artisan silver jewelry styles, though the attribution is unverified in the absence of a visible hallmark or assay stamp. The overall craftsmanship suggests careful bezel-setting and hand-soldered components, indicative of traditional artisan jewelry-making techniques.

Based on the visual evidence provided in the photograph, I have evaluated this handcrafted pendant featuring a turquoise stone and a silver lizard figurine. Based on what I can see, the piece displays stylistic characteristics consistent with Southwestern Native American or artisan silver jewelry, featuring a bezel-set oval turquoise stone, a detailed dimensional lizard accent, and natural tarnish on the metal. However, I can't verify from a photo whether the metal is sterling silver, nor can I confirm the origin, age, or specific material composition of the stones without physical testing. I note the absence of visible maker's marks, hallmarks, or signatures on the front. Assuming this piece is an artisan-crafted Southwestern sterling silver and turquoise jewelry item from the mid-to-late 20th century, a typical market value range would be $150 to $300, driven by steady collector demand for regional artisan designs featuring animal motifs. This estimate assumes normal vintage wear and tear, including the visible tarnish and patina. If physical inspection reveals the piece to be a modern reproduction, replica, copy, or produced 'in the style of' traditional Southwestern makers without actual artisan provenance, the value would likely decrease significantly, falling into the $40 to $80 range. To establish a more precise value and explore potential attribution, physical inspection would be required to test the metal purity, evaluate the stone treatment, inspect for obscured hallmarks on the reverse, and seek the opinion of a qualified specialist in Southwestern or Native American jewelry.