Southwestern Sterling Silver Western Motif Bolo Tie with Boot and Saddle Ornaments
Jewelry (Neckwear / Bolo Tie) · Unknown Southwestern Silversmith; likely an artisan shop in Arizona or New Mexico. Common makers of this style include Bell Trading Post or Sunbell, though many were unnamed independent bench smiths.
Pattern: Western Americana Americana / Cowboy Motif featuring cast cowboy boots and western saddle charms.
Type
Jewelry (Neckwear / Bolo Tie)
Maker
Unknown Southwestern Silversmith; likely an artisan shop in Arizona or New Mexico. Common makers of this style include Bell Trading Post or Sunbell, though many were unnamed independent bench smiths.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) ornaments and tips (aiguillettes). The cord is braided leather (tan/natural color). Some versions use silver-plated pewter (white metal), but the oxidation profile suggests a silver alloy.
Dimensions
Cord length approximately 36-38 inches total. Ornaments are roughly 1.5 cm - 2 cm in height. Estimated silver weight is 15-20 grams excluding the leather cord.
Description
A classic piece of Western Americana, this bolo tie features two distinct sterling silver sliders: a detailed miniature cowboy boot and a western-style saddle. Unlike traditional bolos with a single large slide, this 'double charm' style offers a unique tiered aesthetic. The natural tan braided leather cord provides a rustic contrast to the patinated silver, which has developed a dark, attractive oxidation that defines the textures of the stirrups and leatherwork of the miniature saddle.
Key Features
Dual-ornament design (Boot and Saddle); tapered silver 'aiguillette' tips with decorative piercing; hand-braided tan leather cord; figural casting style.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) ornaments and tips (aiguillettes). The cord is braided leather (tan/natural color). Some versions use silver-plated pewter (white metal), but the oxidation profile suggests a silver alloy.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized (antiqued) finish highlights recessed details of the boot and saddle molds. The tips feature simple geometric piercing near the cord insertion point. Style is Mid-Century Western Revival.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the image. Typically found on the reverse of the sliding ornaments or the side of the silver tips; likely stamped 'STERLING' or featuring a small pictorial maker's mark (e.g., a bell or arrow).
Construction Details
Ornaments are cast (lost-wax or sand cast) with soldered tension clips or loops on the reverse. Tips are formed from sheet metal and crimped onto the leather cord ends.
Functional Features
Functional slide mechanism allowing the ornaments to be moved up or down the cord. Weighted tips ensure the braided leather hangs straight when worn.
Handle & Grip Details
The 'grip' refers to the tension slide on the back of the saddle/boot charms; usually a Bennett-style clip or a simple wire loop that uses friction against the braided leather to stay in place.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial artisan grade. The casting is clean but shows some minor pitting typical of mid-century mass-market silverwork. The assembly is durable and professional.
Authentication Indicators
Solder flow at the joints of the tips and the density of the charms indicate authentic silver rather than plated plastic. The wear pattern on the cord suggests genuine age rather than a modern reproduction.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, likely the Southwest (Arizona or New Mexico). Hand-finished commercial production common to tourist-adjacent workshops or Western wear specialty shops.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Western Revival (1950s-1970s). The bolo tie gained significant popularity as a formal western accessory during this post-war period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980. The wear on the tan leather cord and the specific style of casting for the 'figural' charms are indicative of late mid-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Cowboy Chic' era of American fashion where western utilitarian items were adapted into formal jewelry. It serves as a symbol of regional identity in the American West.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. The leather shows signs of drying and mild fraying near the tips. The silver possesses a heavy natural patina (tarnish) which is desirable in this style but could be polished if preferred.
Value Estimate
$45 - $85 USD. Value is driven by the silver content and the appeal of the specific figural motifs to western collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Clean silver components with a sunshine cloth; do not use liquid dips which could ruin the leather. Condition the leather cord with a tiny amount of mink oil or Lexol to prevent cracking.
Similar Pieces
Navajo turquoise bolo ties (usually more expensive due to stone content); Hopi overlay bolos (distinctive two-tone silver technique); contemporary pewter reproductions (lighter and lack the deep oxidation of sterling).
Interesting Facts
The bolo tie was designated the official neckwear of Arizona in 1971 and New Mexico in 1987. It is often attributed to Victor Cedarstaff, an Arizona silversmith who allegedly invented it in the late 1940s after his hat blew off and he wore his hatband around his neck.