Navajo Sterling Silver Turquoise Ring by Harrison Bitsui (H Hallmark)
Jewelry - Ring · Attributed to Harrison Bitsui, a noted Navajo silversmith known for his work in traditional and contemporary Southwest styles. The 'H' hallmark is often associated with the Bitsui family or members of the Navajo Guild who utilize simplified letter stamps.
Pattern: Traditional Navajo Split-Shank Cabochon Ring; a classic design pattern in Southwest Indigenous jewelry characterized by a multi-wire shank and a prominent central stone.
Type
Jewelry - Ring
Maker
Attributed to Harrison Bitsui, a noted Navajo silversmith known for his work in traditional and contemporary Southwest styles. The 'H' hallmark is often associated with the Bitsui family or members of the Navajo Guild who utilize simplified letter stamps.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with a gemstone cabochon (likely Turquoise or Onyx, though only the backplate is visible). The silver is solid throughout, not plated.
Dimensions
Estimated size 7-9 US. The face diameter is approximately 20-25mm. Estimated weight is 8-12 grams based on the thickness of the backplate and triple-wire shank.
Description
This Navajo-crafted ring features a robust sterling silver construction typical of high-quality Indigenous jewelry. The reverse reveals a meticulously soldered triple-split shank and a clean, flat backplate that serves as the foundation for a cabochon setting. The 'H' hallmark identifies it as a piece of authentic Native American artistry, blending durability with the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Diné people.
Key Features
Signature 'H' stamp, triple-wire split shank construction, heavy gauge silver backplate, and visible hand-soldered joins.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with a gemstone cabochon (likely Turquoise or Onyx, though only the backplate is visible). The silver is solid throughout, not plated.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and brushed finish. The interior shows a 'shadowbox' or flat backplate technique. The silver exhibits a soft patina consistent with hand-burnished sterling.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Simple sans-serif 'H' maker's mark stamped above a 'Sterling' purity mark. The 'H' is hand-struck, evidenced by the slight misalignment and varying depth of the stamp.
Construction Details
Handmade using traditional Navajo bench techniques. This includes a hand-cut backplate and a triple-split wire shank that is hand-soldered at four points for maximum stability.
Functional Features
Split-shank design which provides better balance for large stone settings, preventing the ring from spinning on the finger. The enclosed backplate protects the gemstone from skin oils.
Handle & Grip Details
Triple-wire shank (grip) made of solid silver. The wires converge at the base of the finger and spread out to provide a wider attachment point to the decorative face.
Craftsmanship Details
Evidence of hand-fabrication is found in the slight asymmetry of the shank attachments. The silver gauge is heavy, indicating a higher quality than mass-produced 'tourist' jewelry.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark consistency with known Navajo silversmiths; 'Sterling' font style matches late 20th-century American standards; hand-soldering marks are visible where the shank meets the plate.
Origin & Manufacturing
Southwestern United States, specifically the Navajo (Diné) Nation regions of Arizona or New Mexico. Hand-fabricated in a workshop or home studio.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (c. 1970-1990). This era saw a resurgence in 'Old Pawn' style aesthetics combined with cleaner hallmark stamps introduced for the commercial market.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975–1995. The stamp style and the transition from raw silver to the polished finish suggest a piece from the late 20th-century Southwest jewelry boom.
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic and artistic resilience of Navajo artisans. Such rings are traditional symbols of status and protectors of stone spirits within Southwestern culture.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. There is minor surface tarnish (patina) and light scuffing on the backplate. The solder joints appear strong with no signs of resizing or repair.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $85 to $175 USD, depending on the type and quality of the stone on the face of the ring.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver cloth. Avoid chemical dips which can strip the intentional oxidation (darkening) in the recessed areas. Do not use ultrasonic cleaners if a gemstone is present.
Similar Pieces
Work by Harvey Mace (typically uses a feather motif) or Henry Sam; commercially produced 'Southwest style' rings often lack the hand-soldered wire shank seen here.
Interesting Facts
The letter 'H' was famously used by Harrison Bitsui, but also appeared on pieces sold through regional trading posts where individual smiths used simplified initials for inventory tracking.
Notes
Stamped H Sterling Navajo ring