Massive Vintage Federico Jimenez Butterfly Pendant | Inlay Pendant with Turquoise, Jet, Spiny Oyster & Bone
$2,225.00
Dimensions
• Length: 3.5 inches (2.75” without bail)
• Width: 3.7 inches
• Bail size: 20 mm
• Weight: 66 grams
This humongous, breathtaking butterfly pendant by Federico Jimenez is a vintage masterpiece of inlay artistry. Every inch of this pendant showcases Jimenez’s bold aesthetic and his deep respect for traditional Zuni and Navajo silversmithing.
The butterfly’s wings are alive with vibrant stones, each meticulously hand-cut and set into thick sterling silver backing. This is not a flat inlay—each stone is sculpted to follow the contours of the design, giving it dimension and a presence that feels almost alive.
Materials & Symbolism
• Turquoise: Used throughout the wings and body, the turquoise adds bright blue serenity — symbolic of protection and strength in Southwestern tradition.
• Spiny Oyster Shell (orange/red): Adds warmth and vibrancy to the wings. These fiery arcs contrast beautifully with the turquoise, symbolizing life and creativity.
• Jet (deep black): Seen along the outer wings and in the body stripes — jet is a fossilized lignite often used by Native artisans for its deep polish and grounding energy. It’s organic, smooth, and catches the light with subtle warmth.
• Bone (off-white/ivory segments): The soft cream areas on the wings and center body are bone inlay, giving gentle contrast to the darker jet. Bone adds a natural texture and represents endurance and connection to the earth.
Design Details
The butterfly’s wings feature intricate arcs of turquoise, jet, bone, and spiny oyster shell, carefully aligned to create a striking symmetry. The upper wings are framed with twisted silver wire, and each tip is adorned with delicate stamped silver rosettes — like tiny bursts of sunlight.
The inlay work is silver-backed, giving this piece a heavy, luxurious feel. The large 20mm bail accommodates substantial chains or beads, allowing you to wear it as a centerpiece pendant.
The back is hallmarked “JF” and “Sterling”, Federico Jimenez’s known mark from work.
Why Collectors Love This Piece
Federico Jimenez is celebrated for his large-scale, joyful jewelry that merges traditional Native motifs with modern scale and flair. This butterfly pendant embodies that vision — it’s vibrant, meticulous, and commanding in size.
Each time you wear it, it feels less like jewelry and more like wearable art.
Condition: Vintage, excellent condition with light patina consistent with age. Stones are intact and vibrant.
Listing only for 1 pendant. Chain not included.