Signed Navajo stunning pendant by artist Richard Begay. This piece features a three-dimensional wolf head with turquoise and feathers. The pendant and chain are .925 sterling silver. The RB and sterling hallmarks are somewhat faded as this is a vintage piece. It weighs approximately 15 grams, and the chain is 18 inches. The pendant is approximately 3 1/8 inches. Richard Begay was born and raised in Navajoland, Arizona. Throughout his art classes in school, he always wanted to create the perfect shape. His first career, however, took him into the forest industry. He soon realized that he wanted to follow the yearnings of his heart and create beautiful jewelry. He borrowed jewelry tools from his father-in-law and set to work, learning the demanding craft of silversmithing. Richard was immediately drawn to the intricate inlay work, for which he is known. As he perfected his craft, Richard explored different techniques of inlaying. He was always searching for the best way, the most beautiful setting, the perfect harmony of material and craft. He also developed an eye for choosing the best stones for his inlay. Turquoise and coral are his favorite, but Richard used a wide variety of stones and shells, including malachite, spiny oyster, and Pacific coral. Not limited to the usual in anything he did, he also inlaid opals, sugilite, lapis, and other exotic stones into his award-winning pieces. The importance of harmony in his work was echoed in his silverwork.