Southwestern Turquoise and Sterling Silver Ring
Jewelry, wearable art. Sterling silver ring with stone inlay. • Indigenous Southwestern American (likely Navajo/Diné or Zuni school). Often these pieces are hallmarks of individual artisans, though many from the mid-century tourist era lack a stamped signature.
Style & Movement
Native American Jewelry, Southwestern Style / Traditional Navajo.
Medium & Technique
Sterling silver and natural turquoise stone. Hand-wrought techniques including silversmithing, stamping (sunburst/border motifs), twisted wire (rope) bezel work, and stone setting.
Creation Period
Mid-to-late 20th Century (circa 1960s–1980s).
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 20mm–25mm face diameter; ring size approximately US 7-9 (estimated based on hand scale).
Subject Description
The ring features a centrally set, triangular turquoise stone with natural matrix. The stone is secured by a twisted silver wire rope bezel, surrounded by a heavy silver shield-style face decorated with rhythmic hand-stamped 'sun' or ray motifs around the perimeter.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. Shows signs of frequent wear consistent with age, including surface scratches and significant oxidation/patina on the silver.
Estimated Market Value
$150.00 – $350.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$100.00 – $250.00 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely acquired in the American Southwest. The heavy patina suggests it has been in a private collection for several decades without professional cleaning.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the flourishing of Southwestern jewelry making during the mid-20th century. Such pieces are culturally significant as they blend traditional tribal craftsmanship with the commercial boom of Native American arts in the regional United States.
Notable Features
The use of 'twisted wire' provides a classic Navajo design aesthetic. The hand-stamped border indicates it was likely hand-tooled rather than cast from a mold.
Condition Issues
Heavy tarnish (oxidation) localized in the stamped recesses. Minor abrasions to the turquoise stone surface. The silver shank may show slight deformation from wear.
Conservation Recommendations
Light cleaning with a soft polishing cloth is recommended to highlight the stamp work, though the deep oxidation (patina) is often preferred by collectors to prove age. Avoid chemical dips as they may damage the turquoise.