Jolene Eustace Sterling Silver and Gold Round Earrings PAIR

This unique pair of earrings by Jolene Eustace (active since the mid-1980s) showcases her subtle, sophisticated approach to metalwork. While the design initially suggests classic shield forms, the true artistry is in the precise construction.

The earrings are built on a foundation of hand-hammered silver. The artist uses two semicircular hammered silver sections, placing them in direct opposition — one curved outward, the other reversed. This intentional dichotomy adds dimension and visual intrigue to the seemingly simple form. The two sections are separated by a central silver bar tipped with small, striking gold drops.

Each earring is signed with initials of this artist JAE, with STERLING and 14K.  The earrings pair are fashioned for pierced ears.

Eustace, who attended the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, learned the foundation of her craft from her parents and honed her skills with mentorship from Hopi jeweler Duane Maktima.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Jolene Eustace Sterling Silver and Gold Round Earrings PAIR is from the collection of a Santa Fe resident

Reference: Schaaf, Gregory. American Indian Jewelry II: A-L 1,800 Artist Biographies.

TAGS: Southwest Indian Jewelry, Cochiti Pueblo, Felicita Eustace, Zuni Pueblo, Ben Eustace, Christina Eustace, Jolene Eustace