Mercury Dime Bead Necklace - 29"

I crafted this necklace with a fixed length of 29 inches, weighing 281 grams. The beads are made from authentic Mercury dimes, each domed, sanded, and soldered by hand. I drilled and widened holes through each bead to fit the chain, ensuring a seamless flow. The cones and clasp are sterling silver; the cones feature heart-shaped lace details at their base, a design I developed myself. The substantial hook and eye clasp, forged from triangle wire, secures the piece with confidence.

Artist Vision
In creating this necklace, I drew inspiration from the traditional use of coinage in Native American jewelry. Mercury dimes, minted between 1916 and 1945, have been repurposed by artisans for decades, transforming currency into wearable art. This practice not only reflects resourcefulness but also a deep connection to history and culture. By handcrafting each component, I aimed to honor this tradition, infusing the piece with time, effort, and personal touch.

Details

• Length: 29" (fixed)
• Weight: 281g
• Materials: Sterling silver, authentic Mercury dimes
• Components: Hand-fabricated cones with bespoke heart-shaped lace detail; substantial hook and eye clasp made from triangle wire