Zuni Pueblo Channel Inlay Turquoise Ring by Bessie Vacit [SOLD]

Navette Brilliance: Bessie Vacit's Blue-Green Turquoise Ring

Immerse yourself in the exquisite craftsmanship of this blue-green turquoise ring, a masterpiece by the Zuni Pueblo artist, Bessie Vacit. The ring is fashioned in the shape of a navette gemstone, a design characterized by its pointed ends and equally curved sides, reminiscent of a small ship sailing in the vast ocean.

The top of the ring features turquoise stones, each meticulously cut in the same navette shape as the overall ring. These turquoise pieces are inset within silver strips, following the traditional channel inlay technique. This technique involves cutting each turquoise unit to fit closely within the silver channels, a task that demands an enormous amount of work and precision.

The ring is not just a piece of jewelry; it's a testament to the lapidary skills of the artist. The intricate detailing and the perfect alignment of the turquoise pieces within the silver channels clearly demonstrate Bessie Vacit's mastery and dedication to her craft.

This turquoise ring is more than an accessory; it's a piece of art that tells a story of the rich cultural heritage of Zuni Pueblo and the exceptional skill of its artists. It's a treasure to be admired, worn, and cherished.

This Zuni ring is being credited to the Zuni jeweler by the name of Bessie Vacit, who is listed as the daughter of Frank Vasic (1915-1999). Both father and daughter used the same fleur-de-lis or, most likely, an ear of corn symbol stamp as a hallmark. Her mother is listed as Elizabeth Leekya Vacit (? - 2005). [Schaaf 2013:341]

There seems to be some confusion as to whether Elizabeth and Bessie are the same person. Greg Schaaf lists Elizabeth Vacit and Frank Vacit, but not Bessie Vacit as their daughter. Their only child is listed as Gary Vacit. [Schaaf 2013:341]. Bille Hougart lists Bessie Vacit as the daughter of Frank Vacit [Hougart 2011:356]. Information online credits Bessie Vacit as the creator of the mosaic jewelry listed.

I believe that Bessie Vacit is Elizabeth Leekya Vacit and she was the wife of Frank Vacit, not his daughter. Bessie is a nickname for Elizabeth. We will list this ring as the work of Bessie Vacit as that seems to be the name used most often.

Real Simple: How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home (This will take you to another website)

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Zuni Pueblo Channel Inlay Turquoise Ring by Bessie Vacit is from the collection of a client of Adobe Gallery

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

References:

- Schaaf, Gregory. American Indian Jewelry III: M-Z, 2,100 Artist Biographies. 2013.

- Hougart, Bille. The Little Book of Marks on Southwestern Silver: Silversmiths, Designers, Guilds and Traders.

TAGS: Zuni Pueblo, Southwest Indian Jewelry, Bessie Vacit