Colorful Santo Domingo double strand multi stone “chicklets” and melon shell heishi necklace. The artist has handmade each bead in the double strand necklace by starting with detailed melon shell heishi beads that set side by side as if they are just one long stick chopped up into tiny sections. The artist also cuts multi stone and shell square cut chicklet beads. The chicklet beads consist of melon shell, white shell, yellow shell, blue and green turquoise, pipestone, serpentine, and black jet that graduate in size from small along the ends of the necklace up to larger chicklet beads. Santo Domingo artist Marvin Lavato described the beads as “chicklet” due to the familiarity of the chicklet candy. It’s easier than trying to describe the beads any other way? The artist brings bothe strands together at each end into a sterling silver cone with decorative stampwork and finish by attaching a shepherds hook and eye clasp.

The necklace measures 28” long for the shorter strands with the second strand slightly longer so as to hang under the first strand when worn. The wearable length is 14” long measured from clasp down one side to bottom of the longest strand. The chicklet beads start at 1/4” and graduate up to 1/2” square. The complete necklace weighs 120.9 grams (4.26 oz) and is unsigned by the artist. $339.95