Navajo Sterling Silver Turquoise Leaf Motif Ring
Jewelry (Ring) · Unidentified Navajo (Diné) silversmith; characteristic of Southwestern Native American artisan workshops.
Pattern: Traditional Navajo Botanical/Leaf and Bead Motif; not a commercial production pattern.
Type
Jewelry (Ring)
Maker
Unidentified Navajo (Diné) silversmith; characteristic of Southwestern Native American artisan workshops.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with a natural or stabilized turquoise cabochon; turquoise shows characteristic matrixing.
Dimensions
Approximately 2.5 cm in face height; estimated weight 5-8 grams; split-shank adjustable or fixed band.
Description
A classic example of Navajo silversmithing, this sterling silver ring centers a vibrant turquoise cabochon accented by organic motifs. The artisan has employed traditional techniques including the creation of a hand-chased leaf and a symbolic 'raindrop' silver bead. The heavy oxidation provides a beautiful contrast, highlighting the textures of the silver against the bright blue-green of the stone.
Key Features
Hand-chased silver leaf, sawtooth bezel, split-shank band, and natural turquoise matrix.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with a natural or stabilized turquoise cabochon; turquoise shows characteristic matrixing.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized (antiqued) finish in recessed areas; features hand-stamped 'raindrop' bead, a hand-chased silver leaf, and a serrated/sawtooth bezel setting.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped 'STERLING' or '925' on the inner band; may lack a maker's mark as is common with many older Southwestern artisan pieces.
Construction Details
Hand-fabricated using soldering techniques; the leaf is hand-cut and stamped; bezel is hand-crimped around the stone; features a signature split-shank band.
Functional Features
Split-shank design provides stability for the large decorative face; sawtooth bezel ensures a secure mechanical grip on the turquoise stone.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Ring band: split-shank silver wire construction, soldered to the central decorative plate).
Craftsmanship Details
Evident hand-tooling on the leaf veins and hand-soldering of the bead and bezel; shows high-quality artisan assembly rather than mass-produced casting.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Navajo construction (split shank, sawtooth bezel), natural patina in crevices, and hand-tooling marks on the leaf veins.
Origin & Manufacturing
Southwestern United States (Arizona or New Mexico); handcrafted in a Navajo workshop following traditional silversmithing methods.
Era & Period
Mid-to-late 20th Century; likely 'Fred Harvey Era' influence or later Revivalist (1960s-1980s).
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990 based on the leaf style, bezel type, and oxidation patterns.
Cultural Significance
Represents the evolution of Navajo silversmithing from early 19th-century Spanish influence to a distinct American art form highly sought by global collectors.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition; moderate tarnish (patina) consistent with age; minor surface scratches on the silver band; stone is secure.
Value Estimate
$85 - $175 USD depending on specific artist attribution and turquoise mine origin.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver cloth; avoid chemical dips or ultrasonic cleaners which can damage the porous turquoise stone or strip the intentional oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Zuni needlepoint turquoise rings (finer stone work) or Hopi overlay rings (cut-out designs without stones).
Interesting Facts
The leaf and raindrop motifs are common in Navajo jewelry, often symbolizing growth, abundance, and the essential nature of water in desert life.