Hopi Pueblo Silver and Multi-stone Bracelet by Sonwai [SOLD]

This magnificent bracelet in the style of Charles Loloma was made by his niece Verma Nequatewa, or Sonwai, who had collaborated with Charles Loloma and was mentored by him. The bracelet has a silver frame on which are stacked, side-by-side, bars of many gemstones, wood, and gold. To quote Sonwai:

“I have to take time with each piece, hand-shaping each part.  It is as with a child.  Each one is different and has to be paid attention to.  I construct the metal work from flat sheet silver or gold, or sandcast a piece, then bend it to the shape, so I get the feel of the strength of the metal each time.  I enjoy inlaying with fine stones, discovering the personality or inner secrets of each. . . .I pay attention to the metal and to the stones, working with them to help them become what they can be.” [Schaaf, 2003:245]

Verma Nequatewa, known as Sonwai, was born in 1949 in the village of Hotevilla on the Hopi Reservation.  When she was in high school, Charles Loloma returned to Hotevilla in 1966, and she became interested in helping him with his work.  She apprenticed with him for many years, and now works on her own.  She signs her jewelry with the name Sonwai, the Hopi feminine word for beauty.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Hopi Pueblo Silver and Multi-stone Bracelet by Sonwai is from the collection of a client from Michigan

Reference: American Indian Jewelry I - 1,200 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf

Relative Links: Hopi Pueblo, Charles Loloma, Southwest Indian Jewelry, Verma Nequatewa, Hopi Pueblo Jeweler