Early Modernist Navajo Silver Ring with Square Turquoise Gemstone [SOLD]

An exceptional square cut cabochon of Blue Gem turquoise is the centerpiece of this mid-century ring. An unnamed Diné jeweler created this unique modern setting to bring out the stone's unique beauty of blue and green hues blended with a matrix of irregular flecks of gold. The turquoise rests on a skillfully filed shank that features a triangular design. It is an excellent example of early Diné modernist jewelry, collectible for not only the stone, but for the classic style.

The name "Blue Gem Turquoise" has always been associated with high grade, desirable turquoise. It is important to note, however, that there have been three mines labeled Blue Gem over the years. The one associated with some of the finest jewelry produced in the 1930s and 1940s is the mine southwest of Battle Mountain in Nevada. That mine began production in 1934 and the turquoise produced there ranged in color from a deep blue to green, oftentimes with the colors mixed, and with gold color matrix, a result of pyrite or fool's gold in the stone. The distinguishing feature of original Blue Gem turquoise was its hardness and its deep, rich almost clear character.

Condition: thering shows minor wear patterns along the bezel and shank, giving it a soft texture. The stone is intact.

Provenance: this Early Modernist Navajo Silver Ring with Square Turquoise Gemstone is from a Colorado Southwest Indian Jewelry Collector

Recommended Reading:

- Navajo Silver: A Brief History of Navajo Silver by Arthur Woodward

- Navajo Jewelry: A Legacy of Silver and Stone by Lois Essary Jacka

Relative Links: ring, Navajo, Southwest Indian Jewelry