Wild Horse Oval Pendant in Sterling Silver

Cream and chocolate patterning like an Appaloosa coat, which is exactly where Wild Horse gets its name. This 15.5 carat oval cabochon sits in a sterling silver bezel framed by a twisted rope border, and it hangs from an oversized bail that slides onto a heavier chain or a leather cord.

Wild Horse is not turquoise, and I would rather say that up front than let a photo imply it. It is magnesite and hematite, and it comes from a single deposit near Globe, Arizona. The white is magnesite, the brown is hematite, and because there is only one source, supply is limited. It is a good stone for anyone who loves Southwestern silver but does not wear blue.

This pendant comes from Cutting Edge Turquoise, our family lapidary. Usually rough passes from a dealer to a cutter to a silversmith to a gallery, and nobody along that chain has seen both ends of it. Here it stays in the family from the stone to the silver.

Details

• Stone: Genuine Wild Horse, Globe, Arizona, magnesite and hematite
• Stone weight: 15.5 carats
• Shape: Oval cabochon
• Metal: Sterling silver
• Setting: Smooth bezel with a twisted rope border
• Bail: Oversized, fits heavier chains and cords
• Source: Cutting Edge Turquoise
• Type: One of a kind, only one available

Style and wear
The brown and cream palette sits easily with denim, leather, and Western layers, and it pairs well with plain sterling or a turquoise piece when you want a little contrast.

Care
Magnesite is softer and more porous than turquoise, so treat it gently. Keep it away from lotion, perfume, sunscreen, and cleaning products, and take it off before showering or swimming. Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth after wearing, and use a silver polishing cloth on the metal only, not the stone. Store it on its own in a dry pouch or box so harder pieces do not scratch it.

Handcrafted in the American Southwest. Ships from Santa Fe within 2 to 3 business days, ready to wear or to give.

Learn more. Read more about Wild Horse and where it comes from, see the stones that get mistaken for turquoise, or check the Turquoise Glossary for terms that come up when you shop Southwestern stone.