Very Nice Handmade Beaded Necklace Plains Style Estimated Era: Mid-20th Century (1950's-1990)

Item: Handmade Beaded Necklace – Plains Style
Estimated Era: Mid-20th Century (circa 1950s–1990s)
Origin: North American Plains / Plateau region (Native-inspired beadwork tradition)
Medium: Glass seed beads, cotton or sinew thread
Dimensions: Approx. 20–24 inches total length with fringe

🔹 Description

This hand-woven bead necklace features a continuous pattern of geometric diamonds in red, white, and turquoise blue, with a long pendant section and three-tiered beaded fringe. The design reflects Plains-style artistry commonly associated with Lakota, Cheyenne, or Crow beadwork motifs, symbolizing strength, spirit, and balance.

The piece is entirely handmade using small vintage glass seed beads. The stitchwork tension, color variation, and bead types indicate traditional loom or hand-weave craftsmanship rather than modern machine production.

🔹 Expert Assessment

Handmade: Confirmed (minor tension irregularities and bead variations visible)

Bead Type: Vintage Czech/Italian glass seed beads

Cultural Influence: Plains / Plateau Native American bead traditions

Estimated Production Era: 1950s–1990s

Condition: Excellent vintage condition – minimal bead loss, strong structure

🔹 Historical Context

Beadwork of this style has deep roots in Plains ceremonial regalia, dance adornment, and gift exchange. Patterns such as these often carry personal or clan symbolism, with color combinations representing natural forces or life balance.

🔹 Appraised Retail Value Range

$295 USD, depending on provenance documentation and presentation quality.

🔹 Certification Statement

This document affirms that the described item has been visually examined and evaluated based on materials, craftsmanship, and style characteristics consistent with traditional handmade Plains-influenced beadwork.
While no tribal affiliation is formally claimed without direct artist documentation, the piece represents genuine Native-inspired craftsmanship of collectible quality.

Certified by:
B. Winfield Wallace
Antiques & Collectibles Specialist
www.okaywithmom.com