Square Turquoise Screw Back Earrings [SOLD]

C4063T-earrings.jpg

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Artist Unknown
  • Category: Earrings
  • Origin: Diné of the Navajo Nation
  • Medium: Sterling Silver and Turquoise
  • Size: ½” square; Screw Back
  • Item # C4063T
  • SOLD

Some collectors feel that Diné jewelry made in the 1940s is some of the finest made. Given access to new methods and materials and producing for new and varied markets, Diné silversmiths began to experiment in creative new ways. More and more Native Americans were learning the art of jewelry making, and competition to sell their work resulted in artists using unique designs and perfecting their workmanship all the while maintaining a traditional look.

These lovely square earrings are an excellent example of work done during this time period. Traditional Diné jewelry used silverwork as a frame to the valued turquoise stone. The intent was to bring out the beauty of a stone by framing it in silver. These earrings feature sky blue stones, a reflection of the reservation sky. The stones are set in a double bezel. A sawtooth  bezel holds the stone and it is set on another bezel which is a frame of miniscule dots. The result is a tiny elaborate frame surrounding a single square stone. Elegant, yet simple. The earrings have been lovingly worn over a long period of time, and the edges of the bezel have worn to a smooth finish that can only be accomplished with time.

The earrings are screw back, but could easily be converted if desired.  


Condition: The Square Turquoise Screw Back Earrings are in excellent condition for their age. Wear and time have only added to their beauty.

Provenance: The earrings are from the collection of the daughter of the Balcomb family who owned galleries in New Mexico and Arizona.

Recommended Reading: The Navajo and Pueblo Silversmiths by John Adair


Artist Unknown
  • Category: Earrings
  • Origin: Diné of the Navajo Nation
  • Medium: Sterling Silver and Turquoise
  • Size: ½” square; Screw Back
  • Item # C4063T
  • SOLD

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