Southwestern Native American Style Arrowhead Bolo Tie with Turquoise Inlay
Jewelry (Bolo Tie/Neckwear) · Unknown artisan; likely an independent Southwestern silversmith or souvenir manufacturer. Typical of Santa Fe or Gallup regional workshops.
Pattern: Traditional Arrowhead Motif; common in Southwest Indigenous and Western-style jewelry.
Type
Jewelry (Bolo Tie/Neckwear)
Maker
Unknown artisan; likely an independent Southwestern silversmith or souvenir manufacturer. Typical of Santa Fe or Gallup regional workshops.
Material
Likely Silver Plate or low-grade Nickel Silver (German Silver) based on surface wear and luster; featuring a stabilized turquoise or faux-turquoise resin cabochon and a braided nylon or synthetic fiber cord.
Dimensions
Slide approximately 4cm x 5cm; Cord approx. 90cm total length. Estimated weight of metal slide: 25-35 grams.
Description
An iconic piece of Western Americana, this bolo tie features a rugged, sand-cast style arrowhead slide. The metalwork is heavily textured to mimic primitive flintknapping, contrasted by a bright, teardrop-shaped turquoise-colored inlay. This style of neckwear transitioned from functional ranch wear to a legitimate high-fashion accessory in the American West during the late 20th century.
Key Features
Faux-flintknapped texture; prominent teardrop turquoise center; classic arrowhead silhouette; black braided cord.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver Plate or low-grade Nickel Silver (German Silver) based on surface wear and luster; featuring a stabilized turquoise or faux-turquoise resin cabochon and a braided nylon or synthetic fiber cord.
Finish & Decoration
Hammered/Hand-textured surface with an oxidized (patinated) recessed area to highlight the texture; Bright-polished highlights on the raised ridges. Features an organic arrowhead form with serrated edges.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No marks visible on the front; potentially stamped 'STERLING', 'MEXICO', or with an artisan hallmark on the reverse tension slide. Many such pieces are unstamped if they are silver-plated.
Construction Details
Cast metal construction (likely sand-cast or investment cast) given the thickness and heavy texture; turquoise stone is bezel-set or glued into a central aperture.
Functional Features
Mechanical tension slide or 'Bennett-style' clip on the reverse to allow vertical adjustment along the braided cord; weighted metal tips (not visible but standard for the form).
Handle & Grip Details
Braided black synthetic cord; durable and designed for friction-based sliding with the metal ornament.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial casting technique; finished with a darkening agent in the pits to simulate age; bezel work is standard industrial grade.
Authentication Indicators
The lack of clearly defined hallmarks and the 'pitting' in the casting suggests a more commercial/souvenir grade rather than high-end collectible Navajo or Zuni sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States (Southwest region) or Mexico. Mass-produced artisanal style common in road-side stalls and Western wear retailers.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Modern Southwest Revival); c. 1970-1990. Influenced by the mid-century surge in Western wear popularity.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975–1995 based on the style of the cord and the casting quality.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of Western American identity and the fusion of Native American artistry with settler cowboy culture; represents the democratization of Southwestern jewelry.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The metal shows minor surface oxidation and light scratching consistent with use. Cord shows slight fuzzing/wear. The stone appears secure.
Value Estimate
Retail: $25 - $60 USD. Values vary based on silver content (if verified sterling) vs. silver plate.
Care & Maintenance
Gently wipe with a soft silver cloth; do not submerge in water as it may damage the stone adhesive or the cord; store hanging to prevent cord kinking.
Similar Pieces
Navajo Sandscast Sterling Bolos (higher value, heavier silver); Zuni Inlay Bolos (geometric stone patterns); Pewter souvenir bolos (common low-cost alternatives).
Interesting Facts
The bolo tie was designated the official neckwear of Arizona in 1971 and New Mexico in 1987. It originated in the labs of silversmiths in the late 1940s as a creative alternative to the fabric necktie.