LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Zuni Indians: Turquoise
built 640 days ago
Many Zuni ... became master silversmiths and perfected the skill of stone inlay. They found that by using small pieces of stone they were able to create intricate designs and unique patterns. Small oval-shaped stones with pointed ends are set close to one another and side by side. The technique is normally used with turquoise in creating necklaces or rings. Another technique they have mastered is needlepoint.
Source:
Zuni artists are ... world-renowned for their channel inlay patterns, cluster, needlepoint and petit point designs. Their intricate and very precise patterns, which are inlaid in silver, are created with turquoise, pipestone, lapis lazuli, and malachite brought in by traders. All Zuni Indian jewelry is meticulously crafted and their choice of colors in uniting stones and shells is remarkable in its correctness.
Source:
The smallest of carvings are most treasured by the Zuni, because of the skill and patience required to carve them. The electric drill used by modern artists allows them to render realistic figures in a variety of materials. Elements used for carving vary, including; abalone, alabaster, amber, coral, dolomite, fluorite, spiny oyster, ironwood, jet, lapis, malachite, mother-of-pearl, Picasso marble, pipestone, sandstone, serpentine, fossilized ivory, travertine and turquoise.
Source:
MORE ABOUT
Turquoise