sz8 Harry Morgan Navajo sterling silver long ring w/ nice turquoiser. Great looking ring. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver with no issues unless some are already stated previously in the description. Some expected wear. Size 8 ring Harry Morgan is known for his classic revival style jewelry with its smooth, soft, antique finishes and classic design. He is a fifth-generation silversmith. Born and raised on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona, Harry Morgan began casting jewelry at age seven. His mother Louise inspired him to make jewelry in the old style. The Navajo Tribe offered him a four-year scholarship in engineering, but being a rodeo cowboy was his dream, at the time. He ultimately returned to his passion for silversmithing, and became a silversmith in 1965. He spent most of his life in the Gallup, NM area, and at one point opened a jewelry supply store in Crownpoint, NM. He also operated a smithing studio, and employed many smiths who would also emulate the classic revival style. One of those employed was well-known silversmith Kirk Smith. Many of Harry Morgans stamps were inherited from his parents and uncle, or made by him. Harry Morgan was married to Navajo silversmith Betty Joe, and is the nephew of accomplished silversmiths Charlie Bitsue and Ike Wilson. Brother Henry Morgan is known for his exceptional sandcast pieces. Linda Marble, his sister, was also known for her sandcast pieces. She passed away in 2004. Of his five children, three have taken up silversmithing. Harry Morgan won awards at every major Indian art show, and had an exhibit of his creations at the Heard Museum in 2007, a year before he passed way.

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Big Jack Adakai Navajo Intricately stamped/repousse sterling silver belt buckle. Fits up to a 1.75" belt. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver with weight and measurements in pictures. Fully functional with no issues. All items will likely have some expected wear, the older they are the more wear they should have. Circa third quarter of the 20th century. Jack Adakai was a renowned Navajo silversmith in the later half of his life - he took up his craft after fighting in the European-African Campaign during WWII. He was born in the 1920s and lived until the mid 1980s. He was well known for his traditional designs and high quality craftsmanship. Working during the mid 20th century, his pieces range from early motifs to modernist expressions. He generally employed the use of high quality turquoise and hand worked elements. He is the father in law of John Hornbeck. When he returned home from the Army he worked the rails roads, drove trucks and also began refining his silversmithing skills. He became well known for his old school traditional style silver and heavy gauge jewelry.

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30" Tommy Singer Navajo sterling silver multi-stone turquoise beaded necklace. Solid sterling silver tested and guaranteed with the markings shown in the pictures, with weight and measurements in the pictures. No issues, circa last quarter of the 20th century. Tommy Singer, Diné Jeweler Diné of the Navajo Nation artist Tommy Singer grew up on the Navajo Reservation and was taught silversmithing by his father, beginning at the age of seven. In the 1960s he invented the "chip-inlay" technique of using turquoise or coral chips in the silverwork. This technique has become widespread in his community. He also used stamps and work in overlay. Thomas Singer (1938 - 2014) was active ca. 1960s until his death. He was known for his silver, chip inlay jewelry. Tommy was the husband of Rose Singer, brother of Charlie Singer, William Singer, and Jackie Singer.

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Teddy Draper Jr Navajo Large Ketoh sterling silver bolo tie Carico Lake turqoise. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver slide and tips. Weight and measurements in pictures. Great bolo, 48" long with no issues. Never worn. Tray is tared out, so weight shown is just the bolo of course. Hallmarked behind the cord. Although Teddy is best known for his works in pastels, in recent years Teddy has begun making beautiful jewelry. He creates finely crafted sterling silver jewelry inset with precious gems and high-quality turquoise from world renowned domestic mines such as Carico Lake, Castle Dome, Cerrillos, Bisbee and Morenci. His jewelry, like his paintings, is highly sought after by collectors and jewelry lovers alike. Teddy Draper, Jr. is the son of a former United States Marine Corps Navajo Code-talker who had served in the South Pacific during World War II. He is a member of the Navajo Nation and calls Canyon De Chelly (Tséyiʼ, meaning “canyon or “inside the rock) and Canyon Del Muerto “home. In recent years Draper has begun conducting artists workshops and seminars teaching others his unique techniques in jewelry making and painting.

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Large Herbert Taylor Navajo 14k gold Azurite/Malachite earrings. Great earrings with no issues, tested and guaranteed solid 14k gold, weight and measurements will be shown in the pictures. Circa last quarter of the 20th century. In the summer of 1972, Herbert Taylor decided to learn silversmithing as a means to buy his Olds Delta 88 a new set of tires. The decision changed his life. His sister, Anita Gene, helped him get started. He made a bracelet with five turquoise cabs, selling it for enough money to buy his tires. He was a weekend jeweler, until 1984, when he committed himself fulltime. In 1988, he began working in gold. He stamped and fabricated his work by hand, using traditional techniques. Many of his gold masterpieces are set with the finest Lander Blue, Number 8 and other natural turquoise. In 1992, Dina Huntinghorse, his wife, wrote a beautiful profile on Herbert for Focus magazine. Herbert passed away, but lives on through his work. Herbert won over 100 ribbons including a “Best of Show at the Heard Museum Show in Phoenix, AZ and Southwest Museum Show in Los Angeles, CA. Herbert was not only a master craftsman, but was also a teacher of his craft. He spent much time helping other learn his love of jewelry making and also taught his wife Dina Huntinghorse, who is a master jeweler today.

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6" Jimmie King Jr Navajo sterling silver, coral, lapis, turquoise cuff bracelet. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver with weight and measurements in pictures. Good condition, circa last quarter of the 20th century. This and most of the items from this collection were collected but unworn. For over a quarter of a century, Navajo silver and goldsmith Jimmie King, Jr. excited the imagination of jewelry lovers. His unique heavy metal work style and delicate inlay earned him a reputation as a master jeweler. His work is a combination of strength and delicacy. The most common reaction when people first pick up a piece of his work is to comment on the weight of the jewelry. It feels substantial. It is inlaid with precision and color awareness, marking it as King‘s alone. King was particular about his work, refusing to hurry a piece and willing to melt it down if unsatisfied with the result. Every piece is hand-built and finished. He lived and worked just off the northern edge of the Navajo reservation near Farmington, New Mexico. His interests included reading, learning new things, and listening to opera as he created his jewelry. King created the inlay cube, the solid link bracelet with an inlaid clasp, and the "Sky High" bracelet. He has won top awards at the Gallup Intertribal Ceremonial and featured in several books and magazines about Native American art. His jewelry is signed in cursive "JR" for his name‘s first and last initials. Six dots in a semi-circle above the letters stand for the six sacred directions: North, East, South, West, the Sky, and the Earth. Years ago, in a ceremony, a medicine man told him that if he put these dots on his jewelry, everything would go well for Jimmie - it appears he was right.

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6" Orville Tsinnie Navajo 14k gold/Sterling sugilite modernist cuff bracelet Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver with solid 14k gold bezel and solid 14k gold bead accents. Weight and measurements in pictures. Good condition, circa last quarter of the 20th century. This and most of the items from this collection were collected but unworn. Orville Tsinnie (1943-2017) was a Navajo artist and master silversmith who has been featured in the American Indian art world for over 25 years. He was born in Tuba City, Arizona in 1943 and lived and worked in Shiprock, New Mexico. Tsinnie learned jewelry making from his Hopi brother-in-law in the 1970s and has since won many awards, including a Lifetime Achievement award from the Indian Arts and Crafts Association.

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6" Orville Tsinnie Navajo sterling silver agatized petrified wood cuff bracelet. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver with weight and measurements in pictures. Good condition, circa last quarter of the 20th century. This and most of the items from this collection were collected but unworn. Orville Tsinnie (1943-2017) was a Navajo artist and master silversmith who has been featured in the American Indian art world for over 25 years. He was born in Tuba City, Arizona in 1943 and lived and worked in Shiprock, New Mexico. Tsinnie learned jewelry making from his Hopi brother-in-law in the 1970s and has since won many awards, including a Lifetime Achievement award from the Indian Arts and Crafts Association.

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6" Richard Tsosie Navajo sterling silver, coral, shell, turquoise cuff bracelet . Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver. Weight and measurements in pictures. Expected wear, circa third quarter of the 20th century, no damage or unsightly wear. Artists hallmark shown. Richard is perhaps best known for his distinctive textured silver designs. His trademark technique of granulation was discovered by accident when he noticed silver filings were fusing onto a ring he was soldering. He calls the process which produces this granulated surface texture “reticulation, and he has been perfecting the technique throughout his career. Born in 1956, Richard has been a jeweler since the mid 1970s. He learned jewelry making from his brother Boyd and from Kenneth Begay at Navajo Community College in Arizona. He quickly progressed from basic tasks of cutting and polishing stones to the more complex process of inlay. Richards contemporary silver and hold work features the use of fabrication, overlay, and granulation. He is also known for colorful inlay work with a variety of natural stones and for his fine degree of control and attention to detail. His designs are motivated by images of the natural world, particularly the Wide Ruins area of the reservation where he spent a large part of his youth. Richard says of his work, “I am inspired by the colors of the mountains at sunset, the patterns of shadow and light that emerge at dawn, and the pinpoints of starlight against the black night sky. His pieces typically contain the symbol for lighting and an arrow pattern. The lightning stands for natural causes, while the arrowhead symbolizes man-made elements. Richard says the design represents the ups and downs of life. “Some things we cant do anything about and you should try to enjoy life to the fullest.

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Mary Marie Yazzie Lincoln Navajo sterling silver high grade turquoise necklace. Authentic with no damage, with weight and measurements in the pictures. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver. 24.5" long necklace. Mary Marie Lincoln is an accomplished Navajo jeweler. For over 35 years she has been known for her simple, yet elegant designs that are timeless. She often combines various colored stones such as coral and turquoise, in her popular “cluster work pieces. She works closely with her brothers, Lee and Raymond Yazzie, who are both well-known award winning jewelers. Mary Marie lives with her family near Gallup, NM. She is featured in Navajo Indian Jewelry by Jerry and Lois Jacka and North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment by Lois Dubin.

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Huge Esther Wood Navajo sterling silver multi-stone Yei pendant/2 necklaces. Solid sterling silver, marked as shown with only artists signature, with weight and measurements in the pictures. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver. No damage. The necklaces are both apparently unmarked, likely custom pieces. They are of the highest quality and obviously go with the pendant. They can easily be switched out. I have seen other cast necklaces similar by Esther wood.. The necklace with the diamond patterns is 29" long, the Horses necklace is 31" long, Horse necklace by itself with no pendant is 147 grams, The pendant/pin with the other necklace is 213 grams total. All three together (both necklaces and pendant/pin 360 grams. Esther Wood is a Navajo silversmith and jeweler who learned her craft from her aunt, Elsie Platero. She currently lives in New Mexico and works primarily with silver and turquoise. Esther was born in 1946, she has works in the Smithsonian and just about every major collection. I don‘t believe she is still active.

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Richard Begay Navajo sterling silver, Mediterranean coral bears belt buckle. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver, fits up to a 1.5" wide belt. Some expected wear. Circa last quarter of the 20th century. Weight and measurements in pictures.

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6" Orville Tsinnie Navajo sterling silver Mediterranean red coral cuff bracelet. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver with the markings shown. . Some expected wear, no damage. Weight and measurements in pictures. Circa last quarter of the 20th century. Orville Tsinnie (1943-2017) was a Navajo artist and master silversmith who has been featured in the American Indian art world for over 25 years. He was born in Tuba City, Arizona in 1943 and lived and worked in Shiprock, New Mexico. Tsinnie learned jewelry making from his Hopi brother-in-law in the 1970s and has since won many awards, including a Lifetime Achievement award from the Indian Arts and Crafts Association. All precious metals are tested and guaranteed. A Native American jewelry piece referred to as "silver" or "ingot" is guaranteed to be at least 90% silver. I rarely use the word "sterling" when referring to older Native American silver or really any older silver jewelry as silver contents vary and "sterling" is 92.5% silver. No older jewelry is going to be exactly 92.5% silver, some a little over, some a little under. It wasn‘t an exact thing with handmade jewelry. I‘ve seen thousands of pieces xrf‘d to prove this. Bracelets are photographed on a 6" women‘s wrist.

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7.1" Tommy Singer Navajo sterling silver Chip inlay Kachina/Corn cuff bracelet. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver with only the artists older hallmark. Well cared for piece from the second quarter of the 20th century with no issues. TOMMY SINGER (Navajo b. 1940 2014) Tommy grew up in a small community of Dilcon on the Navajo reservation. Tommy Singer was a Navajo silversmith who specialized in chip-inlay jewelry. His inlaid turquoise, coral, and silver pieces incorporated traditional Navajo designs. Singer gained acclaim as the originator of the chip inlay design. Because of this innovation, Tommy is considered by many as one of the greatest contemporary Indian jewelry silversmiths of our time. Even though he was world renowned, he worked on the Navajo reservation in a small studio surrounded with his family and other tribal members. The Singer family has been involved in silversmithing, stone and beadwork for a very long time, handing the art down from one generation to another. Tommy was a silversmith for over 50 years. He learned the art of silversmithing from his father when he was just 7 years old. His Father Tsinnigine Hathali was a Navajo Medicine man. Tommy incorporates many traditional sandpainting and rug designs of the Navajo People into his jewelry. Tommy began creating jewelry full-time at the age of 21. His early works were done in the silver overlay technique. His work soon began to feature Turquoise stones. While working with scrap turquoise chips, Tommy pioneered the technique of Chip inlay used by thousands of artists to this day. For many years Tommy and his brothers created Jewelry using the Chip inlay style. Later in life, Tommy had returned to his roots by creating Exquisite Silver Overlaid Jewelry with intricate designs. His current work often includes 14 Karat Gold Overlaid on Silver. Tommy also carved storyteller scenes and silver bead necklaces with tremendous skill. When asked about his work, Singer said, "Every piece is made with the various meanings from my traditional ways - the Navajo way of living. My father was asilversmith, too. He taught me, and wanted me to continue this trade. It was my father‘s dream that I learn to silversmith so that I could continue his beliefs." His work is well known internationally and is featured in a number of Indian art publications. One can easily recognize Tommys work. He marks his finished pieces with “T. Singer or with “T and a crescent moon. Whether Tommy created a bolo tie, buckle, ring, necklace, pendant, or bracelet, he stated that, “All my jewelry is made to satisfy my customer. Each piece is unique and is made very different. I try hard to make different styles and designs of my jewelry. His legacy of work will continue to live on for many years. In fact, Rosita (Rose) and the family have continued Tommys legacy by creating jewelry with his designs. Tommy and his wife Rose came up with a new hallmark before his death which is “T&R Singer. Once all of the items he made are sold, the family will be signing the new jewelry with the T&R Singer hallmark. His legacy of work will continue to live on for many years.

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6.25" Orville Tsinnie Navajo GemBone Petrified Dinosaur Bone Sterling silver cuff bracelet Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver with markings shown. Weight and measurements in pictures. Some expected wear, no cracks or breaks. Circa last quarter of the 20th century. Orville Tsinnie: A Luminary in Navajo Artistry In the early 1970s, Orville Tsinnie, a distinguished Navajo artist, embarked on a journey of artistic discovery under the tutelage of his Hopi brother-in-law. This marked the genesis of a career that would see him garner numerous accolades, including the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Indian Arts and Crafts Association. This honor is reserved exclusively for the crème de la crème of American Indian artists, underscoring Tsinnie‘s exceptional talent. Orville Tsinnie (1943-2017) signs his work with "Orville Tsinnie, New Mexico" along with two stamps of Shiprock. Tsinnie‘s work was a testament to his superior craftsmanship. While he was adept at creating traditional jewelry, his true genius lay in his ability to conceive and execute innovative designs. His meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to precision were the hallmarks of his work, resulting in pieces that were unmistakably his own. Operating from his studio in Shiprock, New Mexico, Tsinnie was a stalwart presence at Santa Fe‘s annual Indian Market. His participation in this yearly event further cemented his status as a luminary in the realm of Navajo artistry. His legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of indigenous art. All precious metals are tested and guaranteed,

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sz7 Herman Vandever Navajo Kachina sunface ring sterling silver. Weight and measurements in pictures. Solid sterling silver, with artists signature, no issues. Herman Vandever (1964- ) Diné Navajo Nation. He belongs to a family of well-known silversmiths and it seems only natural that he would follow in their footsteps. He turns traditional methods into contemporary styles with fine, natural stones, coral and even sea shell. He often makes his own ingot silver jewelry by melting his silver to roll it out into handmade sheet silver. Started silversmithing in 1989, he was taught by his older sister Esther Wood.

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sz7.5 Gibson Nez Navajo/Apache sterling silver sugilite/coral inlay ring. Weight and measurements in pictures. Solid sterling silver. No issues. Gibson Nez was a self-taught silversmith and is known nationwide for his intricate inlay technique and excellent craftsmanship. His work is featured in museums throughout the United States and he has become a popular designer for celebrities. He was born in Dulce, New Mexico and is Navajo and Apache. His work continues to be some of the finest produced in the 20th century. (Gibson Nez passed away in 2007)

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Harry Morgan Navajo Revival sterling silver 3 stone cuff bracelet Nice turquoise. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver with sterling mark. Weight and measurements in pictures. Nice bracelet from the last quarter of the 20th century with no issues. Collected, worn little it seems.   Fits up to a 6 1/8" wrist.Morgan, Harry BiographyHarry Morgan is known for his classic revival style jewelry with its smooth, soft, antique finishes and classic design. He is a fifth-generation silversmith. Born and raised on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona, Harry Morgan began casting jewelry at age seven. His mother Louise inspired him to make jewelry in the old style.The Navajo Tribe offered him a four-year scholarship in engineering, but being a rodeo cowboy was his dream, at the time. He ultimately returned to his passion for silversmithing, and became a silversmith in 1965. He spent most of his life in the Gallup, NM area, and at one point opened a jewelry supply store in Crownpoint, NM.He also operated a smithing studio, and employed many smiths who would also emulate the classic revival style. One of those employed was well-known silversmith Kirk Smith. Many of Harry Morgans stamps were inherited from his parents and uncle, or made by him.Harry Morgan was married to Navajo silversmith Betty Joe, and is the nephew of accomplished silversmiths Charlie Bitsue and Ike Wilson. Brother Henry Morgan is known for his exceptional sandcast pieces. Linda Marble, his sister, was also known for her sandcast pieces. She passed away in 2004.Of his five children, three have taken up silversmithing. Harry Morgan won awards at every major Indian art show, and had an exhibit of his creations at the Heard Museum in 2007, a year before he passed way.

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Boyd Tsosie Navajo 14k gold, diamond, opal, and coral beaded necklace. All of the metal on this necklace is tested and guaranteed solid 14k gold, weight and measurements in pictures. No issues, circa last quarter of the 20th century. Natural Opal and Mediterranean coral beads and inlay outside the pendant. My monitor is off, but these pics look really bad to me. It‘s gold, it‘s beautiful. Boyd Tsosie is a jeweler who draws inspiration from the rich heritage of his Navajo traditions. Born in 1954, he has been making jewelry since he was sixteen years of age. In 1979, Boyd Tsosie was only 23. He was already among the top echelon of Southwestern jewelers / silversmiths (both past and present). Boyd was featured in Arizona Highways along with other greats like Jesse Monongye, his brother Richard Tsosie, Gibson Nez, James Little, and Larry Golsch. These Navajo silversmiths all would go on to build fine reputations and set the standards you see today for Southwest jewelry. Kenneth Begaye, a teacher at the Navajo Community College on the Navajo Reservation, inspired Boyd at a young age. Boyd gives credit to Kenneth for teaching him his trade. Kenneth Begay has been deemed the father of modern Navajo jewelry. Before Kenneth Begay, Navajo Indian Jewelry was much like it had been for the past 100 years. Navajo jewelry had a strong Spanish influence. Which is entirely understandable since it was a Mexican silversmith (who learned from the Spanish) that taught the first Navajo to work silver. Boyd considers Kenneth Begay a major influence and carries on today the work of Kenneth Begay. Boyd Tsosie continues to move Navajo jewelry forward and he, like Kenneth Begay, generously shares his knowledge with other silversmiths. Boyd, working with his brother Richard, first gained widespread recognition for his soldered flower and leaf designs. Later, he moved his jewelry designs to a more complex, contemporary look. Over the years Boyd has developed a contemporary style of work primarily in 14K gold combined with turquoise, coral, lapis, and sugilite. Boyd feels that he is creating “tomorrows tradition in Navajo jewelry by being given the rights and prayers by his elders to create his special pieces. He is featured in Navajo Indian Jewelry and Enduring Traditions by Jerry and Lois Jacka and North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment by Lois Dubin. In recent years, Boyd and his son have given back to the Navajo Nation with a nonprofit to give counsel and help to those with substance challenges.

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Richard Tsosie Navajo Overlay pendant with turquoise sterling silver. Weight and measurements in pics, all solid sterling. All stones/inlay secure in bezels with no apparent damage. Circa last quarter of the 20th century. Richard Tsosie jewelry is featured in books, magazines and museums; including the permanent collections of The Museum of Man in San Diego, The Smithsonian, The Heard Museum, and The Museum of Northern Arizona. Richard Tsosie and his brother Boyd came to public attention when they were featured in the August 1979 Jewelry Collectors Issue of Arizona Highways Magazine. Richard is a Navajo jeweler and sculptor from Flagstaff and the Wide Ruins area of the Navajo Reservation and is currently living in Scottsdale, Arizona. His work has been featured in American Indian Art Magazine, Arizona Highways Magazine, the video “Beyond Tradition: Contemporary Indian Art and Its Evolution, as well as several books including, Southwestern Indian Jewelry by Dexter Cirillo and Enduring Traditions, Art of the Navajo by Jerry Jacka. Richards work has been exhibited in galleries and museums from New York to California. He explains that his designs represent the beauty of life. The arrows are things that come natural like the lightening in the sky. They are ups and downs in life as there are in his designs and that is what makes you strong.

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6.5" c1950 Fred Thompson Navajo sterling silver cluster turquoise cuff bracelet. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver. Early work by a historically important master Navajo silversmith. Multiple stones with very old fractures, all secure in their bezels. Weight and measurements in pictures. Fred Thompson worked as a smith for Tobe Turpen at the age of 15 and built his career on the skills he learned in Turpen‘s shop. He made his own stamps, never sold to dealers, and only sold wholesale to Tobe Turpen. After serving in WWII, he continued to make pieces into the 1990‘s. He was a teacher as well as a silversmith. World renowned, he focused on traditional Navajo styles, producing his work with utmost skill using the highest quality stones available. Thompson‘s pieces are now rare and hard to find.

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6.3" Boyd Tsosie Navajo Tufa Cast sterling silver turquoise cuff bracelet. . Weight and measurements in pictures. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver. No damage or issues. Vintage bracelet in "new old stock", unworn condition. Gorgeous high grade natural American turquoise. Boyd Tsosie, born in 1954, is a distinguished Navajo jeweler whose innovative designs have significantly influenced contemporary Native American jewelry. He began his journey in jewelry-making at the age of sixteen, deeply inspired by his Navajo heritage. Under the mentorship of Kenneth Begay at Navajo Community College, Tsosie refined his silversmithing skills, laying the foundation for his distinctive artistic style. In the 1970s, Tsosie, alongside his brother Richard, emerged as part of a new wave of Native American artists who introduced fresh perspectives to traditional jewelry-making. Their work was prominently featured in the April 1979 issue of *Arizona Highways*, highlighting “The New Look in Indian Jewelry. Tsosies craftsmanship is renowned for its impeccable quality and intricate inlay work. He often incorporates high-grade gemstones such as turquoise, coral, lapis, and sugilite into his pieces. His creations have been showcased in esteemed exhibitions, including the “Jewels of the Southwest at the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Tsosies work is featured in prominent publications like “Navajo Indian Jewelry and Enduring Traditions by Jerry and Lois Jacka and *North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment* by Lois Dubin, underscoring his influence in the field. Today, Boyd Tsosies jewelry continues to be celebrated and collected for its unique blend of traditional Navajo symbolism and modern design. His pieces are available at esteemed galleries, including Faust Gallery, which specializes in museum-quality American Indian and contemporary art.

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sz7 Gibson Nez Navajo/Apache sterling silver high grade stone inlay coral ring. Weight and measurements in pictures. Solid sterling silver, unmarked. No issues. Gibson Nez was a self-taught silversmith and is known nationwide for his intricate inlay technique and excellent craftsmanship. His work is featured in museums throughout the United States and he has become a popular designer for celebrities. He was born in Dulce, New Mexico and is Navajo and Apache. His work continues to be some of the finest produced in the 20th century. (Gibson Nez passed away in 2007)

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sz7.5 Kee Nez Navajo sterling silver onyx long ring.. Weight and measurements in pictures. Tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver, marked as shown. Modern ring by an important artist. Navajo silversmith, Kee Nez, is a member of the Many-Goats clan and is from an artistic family. His mother is a rug weaver and his grandfather was a silversmith, but he credits his award-winning brother, Al Nez, with influencing his style. Kee uses 14K gold and sterling silver to create his stunning handcrafted surface design on bolas, rings, pendants, and earrings. He often uses sandcasting techniques to produce each item and many times uses the finest American turquoise or richly colored coral as a focal point on the piece. Kee was featured in Arizona Highways in the article “A New Generation of Indian Artists and has several pieces showcased in the books, Enduring Traditions and Navajo Indian Jewelry by Jerry and Lois Jacka. He has garnered numerous awards at Gallup, New Mexicos Annual Intertribal Ceremonial.

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sz6.75 Thomas Curtis Navajo turquoise cluster border sterling silver ring. Weight and measurements in pictures. Marked as shown, tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver. One section from bezel missing or worn, stone still secure. It is visible in the pics but I will try to get a better pic focusing on it.

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sz7 Orville Tsinnie Navajo sterling silver, coral red web Kingman turquoise ring. Weight and measurements in pictures. Marked as shown, tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver. Turquoise has an old fracture by the bezel, it‘s secure and not going anywhere.

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Juan Willie Navajo 14k/Sterling silver freeform pebble brutalist collar necklace. Very high quality with no issues. Weight and measurements in pictures. 44 Solid 14k yellow gold beads mixed with sterling beaded accents..

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6.25" Edison Billy (1960-2006) Navajo 14k gold/Sterling silver Gemstone set cuff bracelet. Weight and measurements in pictures, solid sterling silver with solid 24 solid 14k yellow gold freeform bead accents. Yellow gemstone untested with no damage or wear.

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Mary Marie Yazzie Lincoln Navajo Sterling silver Pilot Mountain turquoise bolo tie . Solid sterling silver slide and tips. Weight and measurements in pics. 44" long. Expected wear with no apparent damage. Weight shown is just the entire bolo, if there is a tray pictured it will be tared out of course. Marked Mary Marie behind the cord, not currently shown in pictures but it‘s there. Mary Marie Lincoln is an accomplished Navajo jeweler. For over 35 years she has been known for her simple, yet elegant designs that are timeless. She often combines various colored stones such as coral and turquoise, in her popular “cluster work pieces. She works closely with her brothers, Lee and Raymond Yazzie, who are both well-known award winning jewelers. Mary Marie lives with her family near Gallup, NM. She is featured in Navajo Indian Jewelry by Jerry and Lois Jacka and North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment by Lois Dubin.

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6.5" Kee Nez Navajo tufa cast sterling silver cuff bracelet. Weight and measurements in pictures, solid sterling silver with no issues. Minimal wear. Circa last quarter of 20th century. Navajo silversmith, Kee Nez, is a member of the Many-Goats clan and is from an artistic family. His mother is a rug weaver and his grandfather was a silversmith, but he credits his award-winning brother, Al Nez, with influencing his style. Kee uses 14K gold and sterling silver to create his stunning handcrafted surface design on bolas, rings, pendants, and earrings. He often uses sandcasting techniques to produce each item and many times uses the finest American turquoise or richly colored coral as a focal point on the piece. Kee was featured in Arizona Highways in the article “A New Generation of Indian Artists and has several pieces showcased in the books, Enduring Traditions and Navajo Indian Jewelry by Jerry and Lois Jacka. He has garnered numerous awards at Gallup, New Mexico‘s Annual Intertribal Ceremonial.

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sz8 Early work Leo Yazzie Sterling silver high grade turquoise inlaid ring. Weight and measurements in pictures, fossil inlay on one side is pushed in slightly. Likely an easy fix, but great as is. The style and quality of workmanship points to Leo Yazzie, the LY is different than on his later pieces but it‘s obvious to me that this is not a contemporary ring. Likely c1970‘s.

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Harry Morgan Navajo sterling silver deep stamped bolo tie w/ turquoise. Solid sterling silver slide and tips. Weight and measurements in pics. 37" long, extremely high quality slide and tips. Numerous award winner Navajo artist Harry Morgan (1947-2008) was a 5th generation Navajo silversmith who‘ll always be remembered for his traditional "Vintage Revival-Old Pawn" style jewelry that had these gleaming sterling vintage looking darkened finishings that were made in a classic old style Navajo design..The beauty he gave the sterling was so warm that it brought out the metal‘s maximum luster..Harry once said "That‘s the way old style jewelry should look," he said.. "When silver is all shined up it hides all of the intricate detail in the stamp work and the bezels. This older style is what I grew up with and what I love." Although it was his mother who inspired him to create this style of jewelry that had that old Navajo look,it was Harry however who was the 1st to bring this style to the forefront of the industry..Paving the way for others like his brother-in-law Kirk Smith who then followed in Harry‘s footsteps & with Kirk‘s connection with other artists,they then followed in Kirk‘s footsteps. Now this is the dominant style amongst most Navajo artists & you see this old pawn style darkened finishing everywhere..Kirks name will always be associated with Harry‘s & vise versa. if you‘ve ever wondered why most Navajo pieces have that old style look & finishing where many of you can‘t tell if the piece is new or old anymore,it was this man who we can give the credit to for bringing a style of jewelry that we now see everywhere. He lived to see his jewelry being exhibited at the Heard Museum a year before his death.

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Boyd Tsosie Navajo silver smoky Bisbee turquoise modernist pendant. Weight and measurements in pictures. Very attractive stone in this pendant that I believe to be Bisbee. Boyd Tsosie is a jeweler who draws inspiration from the rich heritage of his Navajo traditions. Born in 1954, he has been making jewelry since he was sixteen years of age. In 1979, Boyd Tsosie was only 23. He was already among the top echelon of Southwestern jewelers / silversmiths (both past and present). Boyd was featured in Arizona Highways along with other greats like Jesse Monongye, his brother Richard Tsosie, Gibson Nez, James Little, and Larry Golsch. These Navajo silversmiths all would go on to build fine reputations and set the standards you see today for Southwest jewelry. Kenneth Begaye, a teacher at the Navajo Community College on the Navajo Reservation, inspired Boyd at a young age. Boyd gives credit to Kenneth for teaching him his trade. Kenneth Begay has been deemed the father of modern Navajo jewelry. Before Kenneth Begay, Navajo Indian Jewelry was much like it had been for the past 100 years. Navajo jewelry had a strong Spanish influence. Which is entirely understandable since it was a Mexican silversmith (who learned from the Spanish) that taught the first Navajo to work silver. Boyd considers Kenneth Begay a major influence and carries on today the work of Kenneth Begay. Boyd Tsosie continues to move Navajo jewelry forward and he, like Kenneth Begay, generously shares his knowledge with other silversmiths. Boyd, working with his brother Richard, first gained widespread recognition for his soldered flower and leaf designs. Later, he moved his jewelry designs to a more complex, contemporary look. Over the years Boyd has developed a contemporary style of work primarily in 14K gold combined with turquoise, coral, lapis, and sugilite. Boyd feels that he is creating “tomorrows tradition in Navajo jewelry by being given the rights and prayers by his elders to create his special pieces. He is featured in Navajo Indian Jewelry and Enduring Traditions by Jerry and Lois Jacka and North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment by Lois Dubin. In recent years, Boyd and his son have given back to the Navajo Nation with a nonprofit to give counsel and help to those with substance challenges.

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Aaron Peshlakai Navajo Sterling and ironwood belt buckle. Solid sterling silver with weight and other measurements in the pictures. Fully functional vintage condition with minimal wear. Aaron is the son of Norbert Peshlakai, an amazing silversmith in his own right with work in museums and numerous large collections.

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6.75" c1940‘s UITA22 Dean Kirk Trading Post Navajo silver cuff bracelet. No issues, solid sterling, weight and measurements in pictures. Navajo trader Dean Kirk opened his trading post at Manuelito, New Mexico (between Gallup and the Arizona border) around January 1941. The silver work made in Deans shop was typically Navajo tourist type designs and hallmarked UITA22 (under the auspices of the United Indian Traders Association) until about 1951. The UITA‘s stated goals were: 1) to promote improved business practices among Indian traders, arts and crafts dealers, Indians, and all related agencies; 2) to promote, encourage, and protect the manufacture and sale of genuine Indian handmade arts and crafts; and 3) to promote the general welfare of those engaged in the business of Indian trading, as well as the welfare of the Navajo Indians and all other Indians of North America.

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6.25" Harry Morgan Navajo silver Bisbee turquoise cuff bracelet No issues, solid sterling, weight and measurements in pictures. Morgan, Harry Biography Harry Morgan is known for his classic revival style jewelry with its smooth, soft, antique finishes and classic design. He is a fifth-generation silversmith. Born and raised on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona, Harry Morgan began casting jewelry at age seven. His mother Louise inspired him to make jewelry in the old style. The Navajo Tribe offered him a four-year scholarship in engineering, but being a rodeo cowboy was his dream, at the time. He ultimately returned to his passion for silversmithing, and became a silversmith in 1965. He spent most of his life in the Gallup, NM area, and at one point opened a jewelry supply store in Crownpoint, NM. He also operated a smithing studio, and employed many smiths who would also emulate the classic revival style. One of those employed was well-known silversmith Kirk Smith. Many of Harry Morgans stamps were inherited from his parents and uncle, or made by him. Harry Morgan was married to Navajo silversmith Betty Joe, and is the nephew of accomplished silversmiths Charlie Bitsue and Ike Wilson. Brother Henry Morgan is known for his exceptional sandcast pieces. Linda Marble, his sister, was also known for her sandcast pieces. She passed away in 2004. Of his five children, three have taken up silversmithing. Harry Morgan won awards at every major Indian art show, and had an exhibit of his creations at the Heard Museum in 2007, a year before he passed way.

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Aaron/Norbert Peshlakai (Navajo) Modernist silver Tufa Cast/stamped concho belt. Absolute masterpiece created my a modern day master and his son approximately 25 years ago. Belt is unworn with no holes, No idenifying marks that I could find, likely a custom piece made for a good customer/friend. I have had other Peshlakai pieces that were not signed that came from important collections and were of the same unimaginable quality that just can‘t be duplicated by anyone. I‘m 100% sure the note on the back of this buckle is a correct attribution of this item. Smaller sized belt with weight and measurements in pictures. The actual belt is 28" to the last silver bar with another 24" of leather beyond that. So it will fit up to a 48" waist or so with a little leather left at the end, or can be cut shorter of course. The way it is strung now it would fit about a 30" waist perfectly without moving any of the conchos. 1 Buckle, 9 Bars, 8 Conchos. Conchos are hand stamped, Buckle Tufa Cast. Norbert Peshlakai (Navajo), the first of ten children born to Ben and Lydia Peshlakai of Crystal, New Mexico, entered this world on May 6, 1953. In Lydia, a well known weaver in the Crystal style, and Ben, a miner, carpenter, and laborer, Norbert saw a strong work ethic, which guides him to this day. As a child he attended boarding schools in Crystal, and later Tohatchi, New Mexico. Weekend trips home were usually when he was able to visit family and practice his then-favorite medium, painting; one of his first paid jobs was to paint windows with a Christmas scene. He went on to attend Jefferson Junior High and Highland High School, both in Albuquerque. At that time Norbert knew he wanted to pursue his love of cross-country running, in which he excelled. Upon graduating in 1972, he decided to attend Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kansas. At Haskell, Norbert ran cross-country until he was sidelined by a knee injury, which forced him to quit the team. He decided to take art classes to fulfill his credit requirements. After meeting with his advisor, he decided to turn to his love of painting, though he inadvertently ended up in a trade class on house painting! His advisor suggested he take a jewelry class. Uninterested in jewelry, Norbert nonetheless took her suggestion; this was his first attempt to try his hand at silversmithing. He did not initially enjoy the class, and when his teacher Clint Leon could see that Norbert was failing, he pulled him aside and gave him specific assignments to bring his grades up. He learned soldering, overlay, inlay, enameling, lost wax, and hammering. He came to enjoy the medium, and soon created pieces on the side to sell for extra money. He took four more jewelry classes, and during a summer at home, he and his brother taught themselves tufa casting. An arm injury in 1974 caused Norbert not to return to Haskell, but he dedicated himself to jewelry-making and began accumulating basic silversmithing tools. A relative, Billy Tsosie, taught him how to make his own stamps, and thus began Norberts obsession with intricate stamping and texturing. These highly refined skills epitomize his style: designs are carefully planned and laid out to within a fraction of a millimeter. Designs are rich in detail but restrained, and stamps are struck so that the depth of stamping is perfectly even. Now with more than 300 handmade stamps and dozens of hammers for texturing, Norbert creates imaginative and often humorous pieces with the confidence of a master. Norbert met his wife-to-be, Linda (née Mullahan), also from Crystal, and they started their own family: Natasha was born in 1981 and Aaron in 1983. Linda and both children picked up hammers, stamps, and silver early on and still create beauty today, all in their own respectable styles. Natasha married Ben Patrick Haley, who is from a family known for their handmade silver beads. Their son Luke, now 12, works with his mom, dad, and grandparents, sharing the family legacy of peshlakai, or beeshligaiiliterally “white metal. Ken Williams, Jr. Wheelwright Museum

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6" Gibson Nez Navajo/Apache sterling - Sugilite, coral, variscite cuff bracelet. Fantastic, extremely well made bracelet from the last quarter of the 20th century in good condition. Gibson Nez was a self-taught silversmith and is known nationwide for his intricate inlay technique and excellent craftsmanship. His work is featured in museums throughout the United States and he has become a popular designer for celebrities. He was born in Dulce, New Mexico and is Navajo and Apache. His work continues to be some of the finest produced in the 20th century. (d. 2007)

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6 5/8" Abraham Begay Navajo rug silver coral spiderweb turquoise cuff bracelet. Solid sterling silver. Will fit up to a 6 5/8" wrist, gap size and other measurements in pictures. No damage. Very high quality piece with no issues or loss.

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6 5/8" 1930‘s Navajo ingot silver turquoise cluster cuff bracelet F Peshlakai?. Solid sterling silver. Will fit up to a 6 5/8" wrist, gap size and other measurements in pictures. Nice, well made bracelet. one of the tiny beads outside the bezel on one side is missing, unmarked. Very clean work here, reminds of of some Fred/Frank Peshlakai pieces I have had and seen.

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1970‘s Roy Vandever Navajo sterling chip inlay Teepee Peyote Bird belt buckle. Very clean and possibly unworn, fully functional. Solid sterling silver with eight and measurements in pictures. Marked only with Roy‘s RV hallmark which is typical of him and other Artists of this era. Roy Vandever, Diné, Navajo Nation, active ca 1950s-2009: silver stampwork, shadowbox, chip inlay jewelry. Roy Vandever was the son of Walter Vandever and Emma Vandever; uncle of Esther Vandever Wood; husband of Donna Vandever; father of Cassandra Xalladitto, Cindy Howe, Verna Kee, Sheila Vandever, Sherwood Vandever, and Jerome Vandever.

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UITA-22 Dean Kirk Trading Post Navajo silver Lone Mountain turquoise belt buckle. Weight and measurements in pics. Solid sterling silver. Functional with no issues. Second quarter of the 20th century. United Indian Traders Association (UITA) was formed in 1931 to insure quality craftsmanship in Native American art. The association had strict rules regarding the methods used to make jewelry. A UITA stamp was a guarantee the piece was hand made by a member of an enrolled tribe. Traders paid dues and each post had its own number

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30" c1950‘s Allen Kee (1916-1972) Navajo for White Hogan Shop Modernist sterling concho belt. 30" long where it hooks, appears to have been shortened hence the solder on the end loop. 1.5" wide buckle, 1 1/6" wide conchos. 150.7 grams. Navajo Allen Kee created during his time as a benchsmith at the White Hogan Shop in Scottsdale, Arizona from 1946 to 1962, working beside Kenneth Begay. White Hogan Shops silver jewelry. Lead by mentors, such as Kenneth Begay and the Kee brothers, jewelers working at the White Hogan produced an amazing array of modern designs in jewelry and flatware. Allen Kee worked at the White Hogan during the early years. He was a experienced silversmith that created the desired designs of the White Hogans style of jewelry. All precious metals are tested and guaranteed, any Native American jewelry referred to as Silver or Sterling is guaranteed to be a minimum of 90% (coin) silver and possibly higher content. Anything marked is guaranteed to be what it‘s marked, most bracelets are photographed on a 6" wrist (non hairy), rings photographed on the appropriate sized finger when possible. With bracelets if the measurement is not given in the description then inside circumference is shown where the metal meets the number on the the cloth tape measure.

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Laarge Richard Begay Navajo sterling multistone flush inlay pendant. Solid sterling, weight and measurements in pics with no issues. Richard Begay was born and raised in Navajoland, Arizona. Throughout his art classes in school, he always wanted to create the perfect shape. His first career, however, took him into the Forest Industry. He soon realized that he wanted to follow the yearnings of his heart and create beautiful jewelry. He borrowed jewelry tools from his father-in-law and set to work, learning the demanding craft of silversmithing. Richard was immediately drawn to the intricate inlay work, for which he is known for. As he perfected his craft, Richard explored different techniques of inlaying. He was always searching for the best way, the most beautiful setting, the perfect harmony of material and craft. He also developed an eye for choosing the best stones for his inlay. Turquoise and coral are his favorite, but Richard used a wide variety of stones and shells, including malachite, spiny oyster, and pacific coral. Not limited to the usual in anything he did, he also inlaid opals, sugilite, lapis and other exotic stones into his award-winning pieces. The importance of harmony in his work was echoed in his silverwork, especially his pendants. In these pieces, he incorporated important symbols from his culture. Corn was a significant gift to the People by the Creator--it represents life to the Navajo. The Yei-Be-Che is the personal link between the Navajo gods and mortal man. The Bear, one of the four animals given to the first people, embodies power and wisdom. It was provided for protection and guidance, and to ward off evil. Richard also used the Steppe Design found in the wedding baskets and recreates special times, such as the social dances he goes to. Encircling it all is his extraordinary inlay, adding color and life. The beautiful things Richard looked for exist in his creations. Richard passed away in 2013.

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sz7.25 Orville Tsinnie Navajo silver Royston turquoise ring. Orville Tsinnie: A Luminary in Navajo Artistry In the early 1970s, Orville Tsinnie, a distinguished Navajo artist, embarked on a journey of artistic discovery under the tutelage of his Hopi brother-in-law. This marked the genesis of a career that would see him garner numerous accolades, including the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Indian Arts and Crafts Association. This honor is reserved exclusively for the crème de la crème of American Indian artists, underscoring Tsinnie‘s exceptional talent. Orville Tsinnie (1943-2017) signs his work with "Orville Tsinnie, New Mexico" along with two stamps of Shiprock. Tsinnie‘s work was a testament to his superior craftsmanship. While he was adept at creating traditional jewelry, his true genius lay in his ability to conceive and execute innovative designs. His meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to precision were the hallmarks of his work, resulting in pieces that were unmistakably his own. Operating from his studio in Shiprock, New Mexico, Tsinnie was a stalwart presence at Santa Fe‘s annual Indian Market. His participation in this yearly event further cemented his status as a luminary in the realm of Navajo artistry. His legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of indigenous art. All precious metals are tested and guaranteed,

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7.25" Wil Vandever Navajo sterling #8 turquoise large cuff bracelet. 7.25" inside circumference including the 1 1/8" gap. Weight and measurements in pics. No Damage or significant wear, really it appears unworn in "new old stock" condition. Will Vandever (1951 - 2018) was a Navajo jewelry artist who worked in sterling silver and high-grade stones. His work was popular in Japan. Known for: Developing his own distinctive style, Using high-grade stones, and Winning awards at shows.

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Delbert Gordon Navajo sterlin coral, and green turquoise pendant. Solid sterling, weight and measurements in pics. No issues, marked as shown. Interesting pendant, well made example of Delber‘s versatitlity as a silversmith/artist. Born in 1955 Fort Defiance, AZ. Now making jewelry in Tohatchi NM. He taught himself the art of silversmithing. His jewelry is known as fancy and traditional Navajo. He is always creating new designs and using heavy silver.

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Alvin Monte Navajo 14k/sterling pendant. Solid 14k/sterling with no damage or significant wear. Navajo jewelry artist Alvin Monte works in both gold and silver, often making his own stamping tools to create one-of-a-kind designs. Born in Socorro, Monte grew up in Canoncito, New Mexico. Both his parents were well-known silversmiths but Monte didnt pick up the trade until he moved away from home. He is a self-taught silversmith. His inspirations often come from petroglyphs or pueblo designs although the execution of his designs is more symbolic than realistic. The result is a more modern verses traditional design that he likes to embellish with various stones including amethysts and garnets for a lustrous effect. Monte is now teaching his young son, who at age nine shows a talent for silver-smithing, thus elevating another generation of the Montes into the artist world.

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Herman Vandever Navajo Sterling Yei figures necklace. No issues, weight and measurements in pics. Solid sterling silver. 24" long. Herman Vandever (1964- ) Diné Navajo Nation. He belongs to a family of well-known silversmiths and it seems only natural that he would follow in their footsteps. He turns traditional methods into contemporary styles with fine, natural stones, coral and even sea shell. He often makes his own ingot silver jewelry by melting his silver to roll it out into handmade sheet silver. Started silversmithing in 1989, he was taught by his older sister Esther Wood.

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Lyndon B Tsosie Navajo 14k/sterling brutalist dancers necklace. No issues, weight and measurements in pics. Solid sterling silver with solid 14k gold nuggets enhancing the figures 22" long. The gold doesn‘t show well in the pics due to current setup and time limitations but it‘s fabulous. This is a retro piece about 20 years old in unworn condition for less than half of what it would retail for today. This guy creates masterpieces as is this one, I encourage you to check out more of his work if you have not already. His pieces are hand crafted, labor intensive, quality over quantity. Lyndon B. Tsosie was born in 1968 in Fort Defiance, Arizona and has become one of the rising stars among young Native American silversmiths. Since the early 1990s, Lyndon has been designing and fabricating jewelry. His style is extremely unique, combining contemporary three dimensional shapes, masterfully cast designs, and bold textures that portray landscapes. Often his pieces include sections that are cast in tufa stone or cuttlefish bone. Many of his pieces include asymmetrical designs using precious and semiprecious stones of the highest quality. His pieces can include a variety of metals, including sterling silver, all karats of gold, and platinum. His work includes a wide variety of high grade, natural stones- masterfully cut, polished, and set. Lyndon has been entering his work in Juried shows since 1994 and has won many awards. He has won 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and Honorable Mention at the prestigious Indian Market Show in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Hes swept awards at the Heard Museum Show in Phoenix, AZ- as well as the Gallup Intertribal Cermonial, New Mexico State Fair, and the Southwest Art Festival. Lyndon has become internationally popular and his work is sought after all over the world. Many of his collectors are from Japan and Lyndon has spent a lot of time in Asia. His newest pieces feature strong influences from Asian art- including unique techniques that he has learned and brought back to the Southwest United States.

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Herman Vandever Navajo Sterling, turquoise, and spiny oyster necklace. No issues, weight and measurements in pics. Solid sterling silver. 23" long. Herman Vandever (1964- ) Diné Navajo Nation. He belongs to a family of well-known silversmiths and it seems only natural that he would follow in their footsteps. He turns traditional methods into contemporary styles with fine, natural stones, coral and even sea shell. He often makes his own ingot silver jewelry by melting his silver to roll it out into handmade sheet silver. Started silversmithing in 1989, he was taught by his older sister Esther Wood.

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6 5/8" Kirk Smith Navajo sterling and turquoise cuff bracelet. Weight and measurements in pics, appears unworn. Native American jewelry artisan Kirk Smith, or Kiyaa Alani Shush Dine (his Dine tribe name, meaning “towering house bear people clan), created a long-lasting legacy in a tragically short life. His work is highly regarded for its quality craftsmanship and his use of stones of only the highest quality and richest coloring. Kirks pieces, primarily his concho belts for which he was best known, have long been coveted and collectible, with their value only increasing as a result of his unexpected, early death. His story is an interesting one. HIS LIFE: Kirk Smith first began working with silver at around age 7 in his grandfathers hidden workshop, that according to Smiths interview with Perry Null Trading, “you would not see it unless you knew it was there. His grandfather also made jewelry and Kirk used to aid him by first learning to run the bellow to heat the charcoal that would allow his grandfather to work with the silver at high temperatures, and then eventually began to work with beads and bracelets and necklaces himself. He later used these primitive skills to craft jewelry for his uncle, who would exchange clothes and shoes for his pieces. In 1972, Kirk struck out on his own, primarily working in silver cast work, until the price of silver went up in 1974 and he went to work doing different things like working in the mine or a refinery in Galveston. He returned to jewelry making in the early 1980s when his mother got sick and he desired to be nearer to her. Thats when his craft took a turn. HIS MENTORS: Of course, his grandfather was his earliest influence, and perhaps the most profound on Kirk as a person, but when it comes to his craftsmanship, the game-changer for him was his brother-in-law. Kirks sister was married to an artisan named Harry Morgan, a well-known name in the world of Native American jewelry. Harry was known for his intricate stamp work and the way he would style his silver to give it an antique look, believing that overly polished silver hid the detailing and the beauty of a piece. It was Harry who really taught Kirk about design and style in terms of his craft. HIS CRAFT: Kirk is probably best known for his concho belts, like the one we found in Audreys closet, that we thought was too beautiful not to share with yall after being tucked away for too long. He was known for his unrelenting insistence on working his silver by hand, resulting in beautiful pieces of heavy silver and high-grade stones. In addition to concho belts, Kirk crafted gorgeous statement cuff bracelets with turquoise and red coral and some of the most striking blue lapis youve ever seen, as well as some rings, pendants, earrings, and even a few squash blossoms. As we mentioned, his work is highly collectible, not only because of its stunning beauty, but because sadly, there wont be any more made; Kirk was tragically killed in 2012. HIS DEATH: On September 17, 2012, Kirk was in an altercation in a parking lot with a young man whose truck had struck Kirks vehicle as the man was attempting to back into a parking spot. When the driver, who was intoxicated, tried to flee the scene, Kirk jumped onto the hood of the mans truck. When he was eventually unable to maintain his grip, Kirk was flung from the moving vehicle and suffered injuries which resulted in his death in an Albuquerque hospital a little while later. The driver did succeed in fleeing the scene, but eventually collided with another truck and a barrier on Interstate 25 and was apprehended after a violent struggle with police; he was found to have had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.16, twice the legal limit. Incredibly, the driver, who was 16 at the time, was only sentenced to 90 days in a treatment center and two years probation. As you might imagine, Kirks surviving family does not feel that justice was done in the wake of his death, but they are carrying on his legacy in a positive way despite the circumstances. Marked or unmarked as shown in pics, weight and other measurements in pics. Sorry but my jewelry is stored in a secure location and cannot be accessed for more pictures, videos, or measurements until sold. If you look at pictures/description your question should be answered. Thank you so much for your time and consideration! All precious metals are tested and guaranteed. A Native American jewelry piece referred to as "silver" or "ingot" is guaranteed to be at least 90% silver. Bracelets are photographed on a 6" women‘s wrist.

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Herman Vandever Navajo High Grade Royston turquoise sterling pendant. No issues, weight and measurements in pics. Herman Vandever (1964- ) Diné Navajo Nation. He belongs to a family of well-known silversmiths and it seems only natural that he would follow in their footsteps. He turns traditional methods into contemporary styles with fine, natural stones, coral and even sea shell. He often makes his own ingot silver jewelry by melting his silver to roll it out into handmade sheet silver. Started silversmithing in 1989, he was taught by his older sister Esther Wood. All precious metals are tested and guaranteed,

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6.25" David Reeves Navajo sterling coral cuff bracelet. Weight and measurements in pics, no issues. David Reeves (1949 - Deceased) Navajo silversmith David Reeves was the older brother of Gary Reeves (now deceased) and Daniel "Sunshine" Reeves. He taught them both the craft of silversmithing, along with half-brothers Andy and Darrell Cadman. David had an affinity for complex engraved and hand stamped geometric designs. He was a part of recreating and popularizing the old Navajo designs of the early 20th century. Marked or unmarked as shown in pics, weight and other measurements in pics. Sorry but my jewelry is stored in a secure location and cannot be accessed for more pictures, videos, or measurements until sold. If you look at pictures/description your question should be answered. Thank you so much for your time and consideration! All precious metals are tested and guaranteed. A Native American jewelry piece referred to as "silver" or "ingot" is guaranteed to be at least 90% silver. Bracelets are photographed on a 6" women‘s wrist.

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