Loren Thomas Begay Wild Horse Magnesite Pendant: 5 Reasons It’s a Masterpiece of Navajo Artistry

The Loren Thomas Begay Wild Horse Magnesite Pendant is a stunning piece of Native American jewelry that showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of Navajo silversmith Loren Thomas Begay. This article will explore the unique characteristics of wild horse magnesite, the artistry behind Begay’s work, and the features that make this pendant a sought-after accessory. We’ll also cover how to care for and style this beautiful piece of jewelry.

Introduction

Loren Thomas Begay is a talented Navajo silversmith known for his exquisite jewelry designs. His wild horse magnesite pendant is a prime example of his skill in blending traditional Navajo techniques with contemporary style. This piece features a striking wild horse magnesite stone set in sterling silver, creating a unique and eye-catching accessory.

Wild horse magnesite is a distinctive gemstone that’s become increasingly popular in Native American jewelry. Its natural patterns and earthy colors make it a versatile and attractive choice for pendants, earrings, and other jewelry pieces.

What is Wild Horse Magnesite?

Wild horse magnesite is a unique variety of magnesite, a mineral composed of magnesium carbonate. It’s not turquoise, despite sometimes being called “white turquoise” or “wild horse turquoise”. This stone gets its name from its resemblance to the coat patterns of wild horses that roam the American Southwest.

The stone is primarily found in Arizona and Nevada, particularly in the Globe area of Gila County, Arizona. Its formation is the result of geological processes involving magnesium-rich rocks and carbonate-rich fluids. The result is a stone with a striking appearance – typically featuring a white or cream-colored base with brown or reddish veining or splotches.

What makes wild horse magnesite truly special is its unique patterns. No two stones are exactly alike, much like the varied coat patterns of wild horses. This individuality adds to the appeal and value of jewelry pieces made with this material.

The Artistry of Loren Thomas Begay

Loren Thomas Begay’s work is deeply influenced by his Navajo heritage. He combines traditional Navajo silversmithing techniques with his creative vision to produce stunning pieces of jewelry. Begay’s pendants often feature intricate silverwork that complements the natural beauty of the stones he uses.

Begay’s craftsmanship is evident in every piece he creates. He carefully selects each stone, considering its unique pattern and how it will work within his design. His silverwork is precise and detailed, often incorporating traditional Navajo motifs and symbols.

In his wild horse magnesite pendants, Begay typically uses a technique called “dog tooth” setting. This involves creating a bezel (the metal rim that holds the stone) with a serrated edge that securely holds the stone in place while also adding a decorative element to the piece.

Features of the Wild Horse Magnesite Pendant

The Loren Thomas Begay Wild Horse Magnesite Pendant is a beautiful blend of natural stone and skilled metalwork. The centerpiece is, of course, the wild horse magnesite stone. These stones can vary in size, but they’re often cut into oval or teardrop shapes that work well as pendants.

The stone is set in sterling silver, which provides a bright, lustrous backdrop that enhances the stone’s natural patterns. Begay often incorporates additional design elements into the silver setting, such as stamped patterns, twisted wire, or small silver beads.

The pendant’s design often draws inspiration from Navajo symbolism and the natural world. You might see elements that represent mountains, rain, or other aspects of the Southwest landscape. These design choices not only make the pendant visually appealing but also imbue it with deeper meaning.

How is the Pendant Made?

Creating a Loren Thomas Begay Wild Horse Magnesite Pendant is a multi-step process that requires skill, patience, and attention to detail. It all starts with selecting the right stone. Begay chooses each piece of wild horse magnesite carefully, looking for interesting patterns and colors that will make a striking pendant.

Once the stone is selected, it’s cut and shaped into a cabochon – a polished, unfaceted gem. This process brings out the stone’s natural patterns and gives it a smooth, glossy surface. The stone is then ready to be set into silver.

Begay crafts the silver setting by hand, often starting with sheet silver that he cuts, shapes, and solders to create the basic form of the pendant. He then creates the bezel – the metal rim that will hold the stone. This is where his signature “dog tooth” technique often comes into play.

After the stone is securely set, Begay adds any additional design elements. This might include stamped patterns, applied wire work, or small decorative elements like silver beads or drops. Finally, the piece is polished to a high shine, bringing out the luster of both the silver and the stone.

Wearing and Styling the Pendant

One of the great things about the Loren Thomas Begay Wild Horse Magnesite Pendant is its versatility. The neutral colors of the stone and the classic look of sterling silver mean this pendant can complement a wide range of outfits and styles.

For a casual look, try wearing the pendant with a simple white t-shirt and jeans. The pendant will add a touch of Southwest flair to your everyday outfit. For a more dressed-up look, the pendant can be a beautiful accent to a black dress or blouse.

The pendant works well with other silver jewelry, so don’t be afraid to pair it with silver earrings or bracelets. However, because of its unique appearance, it also stands out beautifully on its own as a statement piece.

This pendant is suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. Its blend of natural beauty and skilled craftsmanship makes it an eye-catching accessory that’s sure to spark conversations.

Care and Maintenance

To keep your Loren Thomas Begay Wild Horse Magnesite Pendant looking its best, it’s important to care for it properly. Wild horse magnesite is a relatively soft stone, with a hardness of 3.5-4.5 on the Mohs scale. This means it can be scratched or damaged if not handled carefully.

To clean your pendant, use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or oils. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage both the stone and the silver. If the silver tarnishes, you can use a silver polishing cloth, but be careful not to rub the stone with it.

When you’re not wearing your pendant, store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to protect it from scratches. It’s also a good idea to keep it away from other jewelry pieces that might scratch it.

Avoid exposing your pendant to extreme temperatures or prolonged sunlight, as this can potentially affect the color of the stone. Also, remove your pendant before swimming or bathing, as chlorine and other chemicals can damage both the stone and the silver.

Where to Find Loren Thomas Begay Pendants?

If you’re interested in acquiring a Loren Thomas Begay Wild Horse Magnesite Pendant, there are several places you might look. Authorized Native American art galleries, particularly those specializing in Navajo jewelry, often carry Begay’s work. These galleries can provide valuable information about the piece and its creation.

Online marketplaces like Etsy and eBay sometimes have Begay’s pieces available. However, when buying online, it’s important to be cautious and verify the authenticity of the piece. Look for sellers who provide detailed information about the item and its provenance.

Some specialized Native American jewelry websites also feature Begay’s work. These sites often have a good selection and can provide background information on the artist and the materials used.

When considering a purchase, always look for Begay’s signature hallmark, which is usually “LTB” for Loren Thomas Begay[2]. This hallmark, along with the “STERLING” or “.925” mark for the silver content, helps ensure you’re getting an authentic piece.

Conclusion

The Loren Thomas Begay Wild Horse Magnesite Pendant is more than just a piece of jewelry – it’s a work of art that combines the natural beauty of wild horse magnesite with the skilled craftsmanship of a talented Navajo silversmith. Each pendant is unique, featuring the one-of-a-kind patterns of the stone and the intricate silverwork that is Begay’s signature style.

These pendants offer a way to wear a piece of the Southwest’s natural beauty and rich artistic traditions. Whether you’re drawn to the pendant for its aesthetic appeal, its connection to Navajo artistry, or simply as a unique accessory, it’s a piece that’s sure to be treasured for years to come.

By understanding the origins of the materials, the skill involved in creating each piece, and how to properly care for your pendant, you can fully appreciate the value and beauty of this remarkable jewelry. The Loren Thomas Begay Wild Horse Magnesite Pendant is truly a testament to the enduring appeal of Native American jewelry and the ongoing evolution of this rich artistic tradition.