Navajo Sterling Silver Stamped Cuff with Single Turquoise Stone [R]

By the 1930s, Southwestern silversmiths were experimenting with new methods and designs. Artists were using different dies to create elaborate stamp work. Silver dies originally had been used in decorating Spanish and Mexican leatherwork. Native American artists soon adapted the tool to create elaborate designs on jewelry using stamps on silver like a painter would use paint on canvas.

This wide cuff features stamped designs created with the smallest of dies. It features an incredible hand-chiseled line less than ⅛-inch from the side of the bracelet. Within the space between the line and the edge is a row of miniscule crescents. Going towards the center of the cuff is a line of tiny stamped designs. Alternating bow-tie shapes and little dots produce a lace-like effect. On either side are two repoussé domes surrounded by more elaborate stamp work. The center of the bracelet features a beautiful green stone set in a straight-edge bezel.

The unknown artist of this Navajo-made bracelet undoubtedly spent hours in designing and executing this work of art. As mentioned above, he or she used stamp work as someone else would have used a paintbrush to decorate this canvas of silver in an elegant, elaborate design.  The silver cuff is unsigned and dates to the 1930s or 40s.

Condition: this Navajo Sterling Silver Stamped Cuff with Single Turquoise Stone is in good condition. There is an old ½” crack on one end of the cuff, but it does not affect the integrity of the cuff.

Provenance: this silver bracelet is from the collection of an East Coast gentleman.

Recommended Reading: The Navajo and Pueblo Silversmiths by John Adair

Relative Links: Navajo, bracelet, jewelry

HOW TO MEASURE YOUR WRIST FOR BRACELET SIZE

Measure your wrist with a flexible tape measurement or a strip of paper just below the wrist bone, where you would normally wear the bracelet.

Option: If you are using a plain strip of paper, mark your size with a pen or pencil then use a ruler to measure the length. That would be your wrist size.

Tip: Do you want a snug or loose fit? Well, that really will vary between everyone. If you are buying a delicate bracelet, we suggest doing a snug fit. Most other bracelets should have a comfort fit except when buying large or thick cuffs or bangles. It's best to buy large bracelets with a loose fit so you don't feel like you are suffocating your wrist, or it will be worn over clothing.