Robert and Nellie Star Tenorio. Santo Domingo Pueblo. The craftsmanship is outstanding, and the names behind it are the reason.
These round spiny oyster earrings were made by Robert and Nellie Star Tenorio — artisans from Santo Domingo Pueblo whose work is recognized within the Southwest Native American jewelry community for its quality and cultural authenticity. Each spiny oyster stone is hand-set in a handmade silver bezel, the round form of the design making the most of the shell's natural color range. Only one pair is available.
About this piece
Santo Domingo Pueblo — also known as Kewa — has one of the most continuous jewelry-making traditions in the American Southwest. Robert and Nellie Star Tenorio bring that lineage into each piece they make: hand-set shell, handmade silver settings, and a quality of finish that reflects the community's standards rather than the market's shortcuts. Wear them with anything. The craftsmanship does the rest.
Materials & craftsmanship
Metal: Handmade sterling silver bezel
Stone: Natural spiny oyster shell, round cut
Style: Round statement earring
Technique: Traditional Santo Domingo Pueblo silverwork
Artisans: Robert and Nellie Star Tenorio, Santo Domingo Pueblo
Dimensions
Weight: 8 g / 0.28 oz
Frequently asked questions
Who are Robert and Nellie Star Tenorio? Artisans from Santo Domingo Pueblo (Kewa), New Mexico, recognized within the Southwest Native American jewelry community for their quality silverwork and shell jewelry. Their names are a mark of authenticity and craftsmanship for collectors.
What is spiny oyster? Spondylus, or spiny oyster, is a warm-water shell prized in Southwest jewelry for its natural color range — from pale peach to vivid orange and deep red. Each stone is unique.
Is there only one pair? Yes — only one pair is available. Once sold, this specific pair is gone.
How big are the earring faces? The design is approximately 1.25 inches long by 1 inch wide — a compact, round form that sits close to the ear. Total weight is 8 grams for the pair.
