Silver Cast Navajo Guild Bracelet

The Diné Elegance: A Silver Cast Bracelet of Symmetrical Splendor

This silver cast bracelet is a sublime blend of elegance and simplicity, showcasing a symmetrical design that is a hallmark of many Diné jewelry pieces. At the heart of the bracelet lies a small diamond shape, which unfolds into heart-shaped carvings on either side. Nestled within each of these heart shapes is a tri-edged point, adding a layer of intricate detail to the design. The bracelet exudes sophistication, yet it beautifully preserves the essence of traditional Diné craftsmanship.

Adding to its authenticity, the bracelet bears the hallmark of the Navajo Arts and Crafts Guild. This organization, officially chartered in 1941, has been instrumental in supporting Navajo artists, many of whom honed their craft at Indian schools, by providing a platform to sell their creations. This bracelet is not just a piece of jewelry; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of Diné artistry and the supportive role of the Navajo Arts and Crafts Guild.

"Craft items were produced at the guild shop, in the homes of the craftsmen, or at community workshops already established on the reservations. Materials and supplies were issued only to craftsmen who could meet the standards and requirements for quality established by the guild. These standards were similar to those of the Indian Arts & Crafts Board program—though craftsmen having their own materials, supplies, and workshops could offer their products for sale to the guild. A full-time manager was hired and one of the first was John Adair." [Messier & Messier. 2014:68]

HOW TO MEASURE YOUR WRIST FOR BRACELET SIZE

Condition: good condition

Provenance: this Silver Cast Navajo Guild Bracelet is from the collection of a client of Adobe Gallery

Reference: Reassessing Hallmarks of Native Southwest Jewelry -Artists, Traders, Guilds, and the Government, by Pat Messier & Kim Messier

TAGS: Southwest Indian Jewelry, Navajo