Navajo Southwest Sterling Silver Turquoise and Coral Hand-Stamped Ring
Jewelry (Ring) · Unknown Navajo (Diné) artisan. While no signature is visible in the photo, the stamp work and bezel style are indicative of Southwestern Indigenous manufacturing, often sold through trading posts or regional galleries.
Pattern: Traditional Southwest Two-Stone Bypass/Diagonal split shank design. This is a classic 'Old Pawn' style motif, though likely a more contemporary iteration for the tourist trade.
Type
Jewelry (Ring)
Maker
Unknown Navajo (Diné) artisan. While no signature is visible in the photo, the stamp work and bezel style are indicative of Southwestern Indigenous manufacturing, often sold through trading posts or regional galleries.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with natural or stabilized Turquoise (teardrop shape) and Mediterranean Red Coral (oval/branch shape). The stones are set in serrated silver bezels.
Dimensions
Estimated size: US 6-8. Face height: approximately 20-25mm. Estimated weight: 6-10 grams. The face is a medium-sized statement style.
Description
This Navajo-crafted ring features the iconic combination of turquoise and coral—often referred to by collectors as 'Skystone' and 'Waterstone.' The stones are nestled in sawtooth bezels, flanked by radiating sunburst stampings that symbolize constancy and life. The split-shank design balances the vertical orientation of the stones, creating a piece that is both a cultural artifact and a timeless fashion statement.
Key Features
Sawtooth/serrated bezels; traditional split-shank; teardrop turquoise and branch coral pairing; hand-stamped sunburst shoulders; silver bead accent.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with natural or stabilized Turquoise (teardrop shape) and Mediterranean Red Coral (oval/branch shape). The stones are set in serrated silver bezels.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized (antiqued) finish in the recessed stampings to provide contrast. Decoration includes hand-stamped 'sunburst' or 'fan' motifs on the shoulders and a central silver rain-drip/bead between the two stone settings.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped 'STERLING' on the interior shank. Many mid-century and contemporary Navajo pieces do not feature a maker's hallmark unless produced by a highly famous smith, though an eagle mark or artisan initials might be present upon close inspection of the inner band.
Construction Details
Hand-fabricated. The shank is a split-shoulder design soldered to a base plate. Bezels are hand-wrapped and serrated. Stamping was applied using a steel die and hammer before the ring was formed.
Functional Features
Split-shank construction which provides stability for a larger decorative face, preventing the ring from spinning on the finger.
Handle & Grip Details
Smooth polished inner shank for comfort. The tapered band allows for better finger flexion despite the large decorative top.
Craftsmanship Details
Evidence of hand-filing on the edges of the face plate. The stamps are slightly uneven in depth, confirming they were struck by hand rather than a machine press. The solder flow at the shank junction is clean, indicating a skilled smith.
Authentication Indicators
The irregular shape of the serrated bezels and the slight asymmetry in the stamp work indicate hand-tooling rather than mass-produced casting. The wear pattern on the back of the shank is consistent with long-term use.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; Four Corners region (Arizona/New Mexico). Manufactured in a traditional Navajo workshop using hand-tools and soldering torches.
Era & Period
Modern Southwestern (c. 1970s–Present). The style carries 'Fred Harvey Era' influences but the thickness of the silver and the specific serrated bezel style suggest a later 20th-century production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990. The patina and wear on the stamps suggest it has been worn for several decades, but it lacks the heavy tula-silver weight of 19th-century pieces.
Cultural Significance
Represents the resilient silver-smithing traditions of the Diné people, which began in the mid-19th century after learning techniques from Mexican 'Plateros.' It reflects the economic shift toward jewelry as a portable form of wealth and a trade commodity.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The stones appear secure in their settings. Light surface scratches (scuffs) consistent with age are visible on the silver. The turquoise shows a nice 'matrix' but no evident cracks. Tarnish is present in the crevices, which is desirable as it highlights the stamping.
Value Estimate
$65 - $125 USD. Value is driven by stone quality and the fact that it is a handmade Native American piece rather than a cast import. Lack of a famous hallmark keeps it in the accessible collector range.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft damp cloth. NEVER use ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals, as turquoise is porous and can change color if exposed to oils or chemicals. Avoid silver 'dips' which will strip the decorative oxidation from the stamps. Use a polishing cloth only on the high points.
Similar Pieces
Zuni Needlepoint rings (utilize smaller, multiple stones); Hopi Overlay rings (focus on silver cutouts rather than stones); Bell Trading Post jewelry (mass-produced copper/nickel versions).
Interesting Facts
In Navajo culture, turquoise represents the sky and female energy, while coral represents the sea and male energy. Together, they symbolize a balance of the natural world. This style became internationally famous during the 1970s 'Turquoise Fever' in America.