NAVAJO 1960 Native American Indian Chief Cuff In .925 Sterling & Carved Turquoise
A Native American Navajo cuff bracelet.
This is a beautiful vintage tribal cuff bracelet created in Arizona by the Navajo Native American culture, back in the 1960-1970. The unusual bold and massive cuff was masterfully hand-crafted with elegant organic patterns in solid .925/.999 sterling silver with polished and textured finishes and decorated with gorgeous engravings. The cuff is embellished on top, with a massive portrait of a Navajo chief carved from natural Arizona blue turquoise and accented with two round cabochons of natural coral. These kinds of jewelry are very collectible pieces showcasing detailed craftmanship making them valuable examples of Navajo silversmithing.
Navajo jewelry
Navajo (Diné) jewelry, originating in the mid-19th century (circa 1850s–1860s) from Mexican, Spanish, and Pueblo influences, is renowned for blending silverwork with turquoise. Pioneered by Atsidi Sani ("Old Smith"), the craft evolved from using melted coins to intricate techniques like smithing, stamping, and casting, producing iconic concha belts and squash blossom necklaces. The First Silversmith was Atsidi Sani ("Old Smith") is credited as the first Navajo to learn the trade, originally using Mexican coins, copper, and brass before gaining access to ingot silver. Early designs were influenced by Spanish and Mexican horse bridles, with the naja (crescent) pendant and pomegranate-shaped beads (leading to the squash blossom) becoming staples. Turquoise Integration was by the late 19th century, Navajo artists incorporated turquoise, which they had long traded for with surrounding tribes, into their silver pieces.
Country: Arizona, United States.
Aggrupation & Period: Navajo, 1960-1970.
Materials: Sterling silver .925/.999, carved turquoise and coral.
Turquoise: Mounted on top with 1 massive oval cabochon depicting a Navajo chief carved from natural Arizona turquoise.
Coral: Mounted in bezel settings, with 2 round cabochon cuts carved from natural pink-red coral with a weight of about 0.80 carats.
Weight: 264.80 grams (169.75 Dwt).
Size: Fit a wrist up to 8 inches, (20 cm) and can be adjusted up or down on special request.
Measurements: From the top view is 83 mm by 121 mm (3.25 x 4.75 Inches) and raise 14 mm over the wrist.
Hallmarks: Stamped with the maker's mark monogram, the mark for the assay and warranty of the .925/.999 silver and signed as follows: "THIT STERLING".
Collateral: This Navajo cuff bracelet is accompanied by a presentation jewelry pouch.
Condition: The overall condition of this Navajo cuff bracelet is excellent vintage. Beside the little normal wear there is no damage to the silver. All parts are in great shape. This cuff was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: B021926AENM/7.850
