Southwestern-Style Turqouise Accented Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet
Jewelry (Bracelet, Cuff) · Unidentified Independent Artisan / Southwestern Silversmith (Attributed to Native American or regional artisan tradition)
Pattern: Traditional Southwestern Filigree and Openwork Motif
Type
Jewelry (Bracelet, Cuff)
Maker
Unidentified Independent Artisan / Southwestern Silversmith (Attributed to Native American or regional artisan tradition)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) combined with a genuine or stabilized turquoise cabochon center stone
Dimensions
Wide-band cuff bracelet with an estimated width of 3.5 to 4 cm and standard wrist opening diameter; moderate to heavy weight characteristic of substantial silver cuffs
Description
An eye-catching and substantial cuff bracelet featuring intricate, lace-like openwork filigree surrounding a vibrant, matrix-veined oval turquoise cabochon. The central stone is held securely within a serrated or plain bezel and encircled by a delicate twisted rope wire detail, creating a striking contrast against the dark oxidized backdrop of the pierced scrollwork. The wide band commands attention with its complex floral and scroll motifs, merging traditional Southwestern aesthetics with decorative pierced metalwork.
Key Features
Prominent bezel-set turquoise cabochon, extensive pierced openwork scroll design, twisted rope wire embellishment, and wide profile statement cuff architecture
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) combined with a genuine or stabilized turquoise cabochon center stone
Finish & Decoration
High-polish silver finish with oxidized/antiqued recesses to accentuate the intricate openwork filigree and scrolling scrollwork, featuring a prominent bezel-set oval turquoise cabochon framed by twisted rope wire work
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image; typical unmarked or artisan-signed pieces require interior inspection for maker's stamps or purity marks (.925)
Construction Details
Hand-crafted openwork fretwork and pierced sheet silver, with applied bezel setting, twisted wire trim, and soldered cuff band architecture
Functional Features
Open C-band cuff design allowing for slip-on wear and minor manual adjustment to fit various wrist sizes
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal cuff construction designed for wrist wear, featuring smooth interior edges for comfort
Craftsmanship Details
Displays skilled piercing and fretwork, careful bezel forming, and precise torch soldering characteristic of hand-assembled artisan jewelry
Authentication Indicators
Visual markers include consistent oxidation shading, hand-cut pierce-work patterns, and secure stone bezel settings typical of artisan-made jewelry; final verification requires acid or XRF testing and hallmark inspection
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Southwest United States or Mexico, drawing heavily on Navajo, Zuni, and Taxco silversmithing traditions
Era & Period
Modern Southwestern / Contemporary Artisan (Late 20th to Early 21st Century)
Age Estimate
Estimated late 20th century to contemporary, c. 1980s-present
Cultural Significance
Represents the rich cross-cultural exchange of silversmithing techniques between Spanish colonists, Mexican artisans, and Native American tribes in the American Southwest
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good to excellent condition with a natural patina in the recessed areas and minimal surface wear on the high-polish silver surfaces
Value Estimate
Market value typically ranges from $150 to $450 USD depending on the weight of the silver, the quality and natural origin of the turquoise stone, and the presence of a recognized artisan hallmark
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft silver polishing cloth, avoiding harsh liquid dips that can strip the intentional antiqued oxidation or damage the turquoise stone; store in an anti-tarnish pouch
Similar Pieces
Taxco Mexican silver cuffs with stone inlays, Navajo stamped and stone-set sterling cuffs, and Zuni channel-inlay or cluster bracelets
Interesting Facts
Turquoise holds immense cultural significance in the American Southwest, historically prized by Native American tribes as a stone of protection, good fortune, and healing, often paired with silver introduced by Spanish settlers