Southwestern Native American Style Bison Motif Sterling Silver Pendant Connector
Jewelry Component; specifically a Bracelet Link or Necklace Connector · Unknown artisan/manufacturer; likely a Southwestern silver workshop or craft supplier specializing in Native American-inspired findings. No visible signature.
Pattern: Bison/Buffalo Bas-Relief Pictogram
Type
Jewelry Component; specifically a Bracelet Link or Necklace Connector
Maker
Unknown artisan/manufacturer; likely a Southwestern silver workshop or craft supplier specializing in Native American-inspired findings. No visible signature.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) or Coin Silver (.900); often these components are cast from sterling but may be nickel silver if marks are absent on the reverse.
Dimensions
Estimated size: 2.5 cm x 1.8 cm (1 inch x 0.7 inch). Estimated weight: 3–5 grams.
Description
An oval-shaped silver jewelry component featuring a double bison motif in bas-relief. The piece is designed with a rugged, textured surface that gives it a rustic, handcrafted appearance characteristic of Western and Native American jewelry styles. The dark oxidation in the background provides high contrast, making the silhouettes of the buffalo stand out. It serves as a functional 'connector' or 'slider' piece within a larger jewelry assembly.
Key Features
Four-point connection loops; dual bison imagery; heavily oxidized 'antique' finish; oval form factor.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) or Coin Silver (.900); often these components are cast from sterling but may be nickel silver if marks are absent on the reverse.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized background with high-relief bison motifs. Features a 'sand-cast' or 'tufa-cast' aesthetic with a stippled or textured field. The relief is highlighted by polishing the raised surfaces while leaving the recessed areas darkened.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the provided image. Such pieces often have 'STERLING' or a small hallmark stamped on the flat reverse side.
Construction Details
Cast metal construction, specifically designed as a multi-point connector with four integrated attachment loops (two on each side). The loops appear cast-in-place rather than soldered post-casting.
Functional Features
Four integrated loops intended for multi-strand cord, chain, or leather findings. It acts as a central focal point for a bracelet or a vertical link in a necklace.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; features four stationary attachment eyelets.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial casting quality. The symmetry of the loops indicates a precision mold, though the face is designed to look 'hand-wrought' for aesthetic appeal.
Authentication Indicators
The grainy texture is characteristic of modern casting methods. The absence of marks suggests it may be part of a larger marked set or a craft-grade finding.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA (Southwest region) or Mexico. Produced via centrifugal or vacuum casting for the jewelry supply market.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary Southwestern (1970-present). The style mimics mid-20th-century Navajo and Hopi cast work.
Age Estimate
Estimated late 20th century to contemporary (c. 1980–2020) based on the crispness of the casting and generic design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the ongoing commercial interest in Southwestern and Tribal aesthetic motifs in the United States jewelry market.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The oxidation is consistent; no visible distortion of the loops. Moderate surface tarnish in recesses is intentional for the design style.
Value Estimate
$15 – $40 USD as a single component; price varies significantly if confirmed as sterling silver vs. silver-plated base metal.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft damp cloth. Avoid chemical 'dips' or ultrasonic cleaners, as these will strip the intentional oxidation (darkening) that provides the design's contrast.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with vintage 'Fred Harvey Era' jewelry, but the casting technique and loop configuration suggest a more modern jewelry-making component rather than a finished tourist-era antique.
Interesting Facts
The bison is a symbol of abundance and strength in Great Plains Native American cultures. Such components are frequently used by modern 'bench' jewelers to create custom silver-and-turquoise jewelry.