Antique Vintage Native Navajo Pawn Sterling Silver Turquoise Cuff Bracelet 19.4g

  

We have similar "Turquoise" and " Native American" items, which would pair nicely with this piece, for sale this week. Listing Description by: Chris T. Markings : unmarked, tested by XRF-Spectrometer, and guaranteed. Main Stone Measurements/Color : green with black matrix.

Stone Treatment : The stone(s) appear to be untreated, but we are not certified gemologists. Stone(s) have been tested and guaranteed using a professional Presidium Duo refractive, heat, and hardness tester. Wearable length : 7.25 L, including the bottom open gap. Width: 1.25 W, along the top of the bracelet. This Antique Vintage Native Navajo Pawn Sterling Silver Turquoise Cuff Bracelet is a true piece of Southwestern heritage.

Weighing 19.4 grams and measuring 7.25 inches in length with a width of 1.25 inches, this bracelet embodies the intricate craftsmanship typical of Navajo silversmiths from the mid-20th century. It features a striking green turquoise stone with a black matrix, set securely in a saw tooth bezel that adds to its authentic, hand-crafted charm. The squash blossom motif that surrounds the stone speaks to the cultural symbolism of Navajo jewelry, with the blossoms traditionally representing fertility and abundance. The ornamental designs, which include graceful feather elements on the sides of the cuff, add a sense of movement and elegance.

These elements blend seamlessly with the center turquoise stone, emphasizing its natural beauty and enhancing the bracelet's overall aesthetic appeal. This bracelet is made from 90% coin silver, sourced from old U. Silver coins-an authentic touch that hearkens back to a period when Native American artisans often repurposed coinage into jewelry. The use of coin silver is part of what gives this bracelet its unique character, setting it apart from modern sterling silver pieces. The soft patina present on the silver further emphasizes the bracelet's age and heritage, giving it an appealing vintage allure. As an authentic piece of Navajo pawn jewelry, this cuff bracelet is not just an accessory but a piece of history. Navajo pawn jewelry has always had a significant cultural role; it was often traded or used as collateral, representing both a financial and cultural investment. The vibrant green hue of the turquoise stone adds depth to the piece, contrasting beautifully with the silver tones and giving it a distinctive and eye-catching look.

Perfect for any collector of Native American jewelry, this cuff bracelet stands as a testament to the artistry and cultural traditions of the Navajo people. The substantial weight and timeless design make it a wearable work of art, suitable for both casual and formal occasions. This piece is ideal for anyone seeking to add a meaningful, handcrafted item of historical value to their collection. This listing is for the item only. This beautiful piece was made by a very talented Native American silversmith.

It features handcrafted silversmith work throughout. Antique Native American jewelry is very rare to find. This is due to these pieces being made for reservation and personal use before the tourist trade became popular.

Very few pieces were made and even less survived to today. The concept of Pawn, Old Pawn, and Dead Pawn Native American Jewelry came to be in the 1800s.

When a loan wasn't repaid, the item became known as either "Old Pawn" or Dead Pawn. The Navajo Nation sits on 27,000 square miles within the states of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. The Navajo have a rich history and culture and have become known for creating some of the finest sterling silver and turquoise jewelry, incorporating their own traditional motifs with silversmithing.

The squash blossom necklace is perhaps one the most famous Navajo styles produced, along with turquoise inlay rings. Turquoise is an important stone in Navajo culture; symbolizing happiness, good fortune, and good health.

The first Navajo silversmith, Atsidi Sani, was taught around 1865 by a Mexican silversmith. Atsidi Sani, in turn, taught his four sons, who then started teaching other Navajo artisans.

In the beginning, Navajo artisans created sterling silver jewelry for themselves and others in the Navajo Nation.