Very Early Twentieth Century Diné Sterling Silver and Turquoise Bracelet [SOLD]

This Very Early Twentieth Century Diné Sterling Silver and Turquoise Bracelet contains seven cabochons of turquoise in varying shades of blue and green. It is easy to speculate that the turquoise in this very old bracelet is more than 100 years old. The variation in color and texture of the gemstones indicate that the unknown artist collected turquoise from different places and placed them together. The stones are set in straight edged handmade bezels. Interspersed between the stones are silver drops. 

Each gemstone is unique. The large center turquoise shows wear and is cracked but is still secure in its bezel. This is consistent with the age of the bracelet. One of the stones to the side of center has a small drill hole, suggesting that originally the cabochon was part of a necklace. The ends are stamped with feather-like designs.

The silver ends of the bracelet exhibit significant wear patterns as do the silver drops.  One end of the bracelet is worn significantly from having been rubbed against a surface while the wearer was eating or writing at a desk. This bracelet is significant for its age and durability, notwithstanding its visual appeal. This bracelet is a valuable piece of Diné history. Imagine the stories it could tell.

Condition: The Very Early Twentieth Century Diné Sterling Silver and Turquoise Bracelet is in good condition for its age. The silver is intact and while one stone is cracked, all of the turquoise is secure. 

Provenance: From a collection in Colorado

Recommended Reading:

- Navajo Silver: A Brief History of Navajo Silver by Arthur Woodward

- The Navajo and Pueblo Silversmiths by John Adair

Relative Links: Navajo Nation, Jewelry