Zuni Sunface Sterling Silver Pin/Pendant

Late 20th Century

.25″ H x 1.5″ D x .75″ Loop

Hand Crafted from Sterling Silver with Inlaid Coral, Turquoise, Jet and Mother of Pearl with Sunface in the Center and Geometric Design Hallmark F. L. Natachu

Excellent Condition

Fred L. Natachu (often collaborated with his wife, Lolita Natachu). Renowned Zuni silversmiths from the Zuni Pueblo in New Mexico, USA. They began using the shared hallmark “F.L. Natachu” in 1974. Fred specialized in vibrant, multi-stone inlay designs, blending cultural symbolism with intricate craftsmanship. Their work from the 1970s onward is highly collectible, known for smooth, precise inlays and reversible or spinner elements in some pieces.

The Zuni Sunface is a sacred symbol in Zuni Pueblo culture, representing the Sun Father (Tawa), guardian of the sky, life, and enlightenment. It’s a common motif in Native American jewelry, often featuring a central face with radiating rays, inlaid with semi-precious stones like turquoise, coral, jet, and mother-of-pearl to evoke the sun’s warmth and rays. Pieces like this are handmade by Zuni artisans using traditional mosaic inlay techniques on sterling silver.