Sterling Silver Sandcast Belt Buckle [R]

We tend to think of the Diné having made and worn silver jewelry since the beginning of their time in the Southwest. Actually, they did not learn the art of silversmithing until around 1850. It is generally accepted that Atsidi Sani (Old Smith) was the first Navajo smith, and that he learned the trade from Nakai Tsosi (Thin Mexican) in 1850.

Tufa casting, often erroneously referred to as sand casting, is one of the earliest techniques used by the Navajo smiths. Today, it is still accomplished in the same manner as it was 150 years ago. The process involves melting silver and then pouring it into a mold, which has previously been carved from sandstone. When cooled and set, the piece requires a great deal of filing and smoothing. All of the casting in the earlier days was simple, plain silver.

This buckle was made in this manner. There is one area on the outer edge of the buckle where the silver is deflated as if there was an air bubble in the casting mold. Also, one corner on the inner square part of the buckle appears to have a similar problem. These areas are clearly visible in the photograph.