Zuni Pueblo Cuff Links with Award Ribbon made by Bernard Homer

Award-Winning Zuni Channel Inlay Cufflinks by Bernard Homer 

This exquisite pair of sterling silver and turquoise cufflinks was created in 1966 by the celebrated Zuni Pueblo jeweler and lapidary artist, Bernard Homer (1909-c. 1970s).

Bernard Homer was a lifelong resident of Zuni Pueblo and an award-winning master of traditional Zuni jewelry techniques. These cufflinks exemplify the classic Zuni channel inlay technique. Homer meticulously carved small pieces of beautifully matched blue turquoise into various shapes and sizes. These stones were then individually set flush with the surface into geometric cells separated by thin strips of sterling silver, or channels, which serve as the frame and setting. The turquoise stones and the surrounding silver channels are perfectly flat and level, showcasing the precision and high skill required for this style of inlay.

This pair was entered into competition at the prestigious Gallup Inter-tribal Indian Ceremonial in 1966 and was awarded a Third Place ribbon. The original entry tag and ribbon are included with the purchase, providing clear provenance and historical value.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Zuni Pueblo Cuff Links with Award Ribbon made by Bernard Homer is from the collection of a client from Texas

Reference: Schaaf, Gregory. American Indian Jewelry, I - 1,200 Artist Biographies, 2003 CIAC Press, Santa Fe

TAGS: Southwest Indian Jewelry, Zuni Pueblo