Navajo Southwest Sterling Silver Split-Shank Cuff Bracelet with Turquoise and Coral
Jewelry (Cuff Bracelet) · Unattributed Native American Silversmith (likely Navajo/Diné). These pieces are often artisan-made in small workshops or by individual smiths in the American Southwest.
Pattern: Traditional Navajo Row-Style Set; not part of a commercial collection but follows standard Southwest lapidary patterns.
Type
Jewelry (Cuff Bracelet)
Maker
Unattributed Native American Silversmith (likely Navajo/Diné). These pieces are often artisan-made in small workshops or by individual smiths in the American Southwest.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), natural or stabilized Turquoise cabochons, and Mediterranean Red Coral (or spiny oyster shell substitute).
Dimensions
Estimated 5.5 to 6.0 inches interior circumference with a 1-inch gap. Light to medium weight, approximately 15-25 grams.
Description
An elegant example of Navajo-style silverwork, this cuff features a alternating row of turquoise and coral cabochons. The stones are secured in hand-notched serrated bezels, flanked by delicate silver raindrops and a central twisted wire 'rope' accent. The split-shank frame lightens the aesthetic, making it an ideal piece for stacking or daily wear.
Key Features
Alternating stone colors (Turquoise and Coral), split-shank frame, serrated bezel settings, and traditional twisted wire silverwork.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), natural or stabilized Turquoise cabochons, and Mediterranean Red Coral (or spiny oyster shell substitute).
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized (antiqued) recessed areas with a high-polish finish on raised surfaces. Decorative elements include twisted wire (rope border), silver raindrops (beading), and serrated bezels.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped 'STERLING' or '.925' on the interior. May include a pictorial maker's mark or initials, though many vintage pieces remained unsigned.
Construction Details
Hand-fabricated using a split-shank design where the silver bands are forged and soldered together at the terminals. Hand-set bezels and applied twisted wire trim.
Functional Features
Open cuff design allows for slight adjustability by gentle squeezing/opening; split shank provides structural stability while reducing overall weight.
Handle & Grip Details
Dual-wire split shank terminals, tapered for comfort. The smooth interior is designed for direct skin contact.
Craftsmanship Details
Features hand-wrought elements; the uniformity suggests the use of pre-made bezel wire and cast raindrops, common in professional Southwest workshops of the late 20th century.
Authentication Indicators
Construction shows hand-solder joins at the stones; the 'Sterling' stamp (if present) should show age-appropriate wear. Bezel serrations are consistent with Navajo hand-tools.
Origin & Manufacturing
Southwestern United States, likely Arizona or New Mexico. Hand-soldered and assembled in a traditional workshop environment.
Era & Period
Late Mid-Century to Modern (c. 1970 - present). Reflective of the 'Turquoise Boom' style of the 1970s which popularized the row-cuff silhouette.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990 based on the uniformity of the serrated bezels and the specific shade of the turquoise stabilization.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of Native American silverwork from purely ceremonial or local trade to a globally recognized art form supported by the 20th-century tourism industry.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible light tarnish between decorative beads. Stones appear secure; turquoise shows natural matrix variations. No visible structural cracks in the silver.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $85 to $175 depending on the presence of a specific maker's mark and the quality/origin of the stones.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver cloth only. Do not use chemical dips or ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage porous stones like turquoise and coral. Avoid water immersion.
Similar Pieces
Zuni Needlepoint bracelets (thinner stones), Hopi Overlay cuffs (no stones), or Fred Harvey era tourist jewelry (lighter gauge, stamped symbols).
Interesting Facts
The combination of turquoise and coral is known as 'The Sky and the Blood' in Southwest tradition, representing the pairing of male and female or heaven and earth.