14 Karat Gold and Sterling Silver Cobblestone Mosaic Inlay Buckle [SOLD]

Multiple stones cut and set in a unique cobblestone style were placed in a 14-karat gold bezel on top of a sterling silver base in this handsome belt buckle.  Segments of tiger’s-eye, turquoise, sugilite, coral and fossilized ivory were carefully shaped and arranged to form a visually appealing piece of wearable art. 

Tiger’s-eye has traditionally been known by Eastern cultures as an amulet against curses or ill-wishing. The eight narrow rectangles of tiger’s-eye seem to change in shade from dark brown to brilliant gold when the buckle is moved, reflecting light in a multitude of ways. The eye-catching gold-hued tiger’s-eye gemstones are arranged along with a narrow segment of white fossilized ivory and pieces of beautiful purple sugilite and turquoise. A small bead of coral rests between the purple sugilite. The stunning cobblestone mosaic is surrounded by a bezel of 14 karat gold. 

“Tiger's-eye, also called ‘tiger eye’ and ‘tigers eye,’ is a very popular gemstone that displays a chatoyancy (cat's-eye) when a polished stone is moved back and forth in incident light. It is a quartz gemstone, usually amber to brown in color, that forms when fibers of the mineral crocidolite are replaced by silica. This structure of parallel fibers is preserved in the stone, and the chatoyant ‘eye’ crosses the parallel fibers at right angles. The best specimens of tiger's-eye are usually cut en cabochon in an orientation that yields the best display of chatoyancy.”  Geology.com

The buckle is signed with a hallmark that could be interpreted as “SP, FS or PS.” We have been unable to ascertain the maker or tribe of this gorgeous piece, but it is certainly from a Southwest Native tribe. The buckle was extremely well made. 

Condition: this 14 Karat Gold and Sterling Silver Cobblestone Mosaic Inlay Buckle is in excellent condition. Every stone is intact.  

Provenance: from a New York Collection.

Recommended Reading: Indian Jewelry of the American Southwest by William A. Turnbaugh

Relative Link: Southwest Indian Jewelry: Belts and Buckles