Single Row Square Cut Turquoise Bracelet [SOLD]

Artisans at Zuni Pueblo have been known for millennia as the finest stone workers. Since prehistoric times, the craftsmen and women have been shaping turquoise, stones, and shell to create works of wearable art. After the arrival of the Spanish, the use of silver in their jewelry added another dimension.

In the early- to mid-20th Century, traders on the Zuni and Navajo reservations encouraged artists to create works to be sold to tourists traveling on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad. Many times, the traders would have Zuni artisans cut the stones and then have Navajo smiths set them into the silver. Other times, the Zuni would set their own stones. Since none of the pieces was signed, it is difficult to know the identity of the artist.

This row bracelet stands above most that were made during this time. The stones are of an extremely high quality and they are square shaped, which is rare. Most row bracelets contain rounded stones. The stamp work on the sides was executed with delicate precision.

Condition: The Single Row Square Cut Turquoise Bracelet is in excellent condition, with a lovely patina and solid stones

Provenance: From the family estate of Frances Balcomb, a noted Indian art gallery owner

Recommended Reading: Zuni: A Village of Silversmiths by James Ostler