Navajo Silver First Phase Concho Belt [SOLD]

First Phase concho belts date to as early as the 1870s. Some conchos of the period are round and others are oval. This belt has oval conchos. Of the many First Phase conchos, there are differences in the punched holes in the center and of the scalloped borders and the circle of silver wrapped around the edge. The diamond punch hole seems to be the predominant style. They were cut with a cold chisel.

The earliest conchos were round in form, thin, and lightweight. Other than that, there was very little change over time. This concho belt has heavy silver content and the conchos are large. It is likely later than the 1880s. The edges are scalloped with stamped designs. There is a circle of perforations on the inner edge of the flat plate. The flat plate and domed plain silver plate are divided by a rope-like addition.
Early belt buckles were generally very plain but the buckle on this belt is elaborate like the oval conchos.

There are seven conchos with this belt. Six are presently on the belt and one was removed but is available and could be put back on the belt if desired. Each concho rests on thick leather pads in the same shape as the concho. The concho belt is extraordinary in appearance.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Navajo Silver First Phase Concho Belt is from the estate of a family from Santa Fe

Recommended Reading: Indian Silver Jewelry of the Southwest 1868-1930 by Larry Frank

TAGS: Navajo Nation, Southwest Indian Jewelry