Vintage Navajo Cuff Bracelet of Heavy Sandcast Silver

About the Piece:

The longer I’ve been in this business, the more I realize that we’re not really owners so much as stewards of these special works of Indigenous jewelry. Historic pieces were loved by others long before we acquired them, and today’s pieces will go on to be treasured long after us. If you think about it, we’re simply part of a much longer story.

Such is the case with this large vintage Navajo cuff of sandcast silver. This thick and heavy silver bracelet came to me from a New York City collection, where it was enjoyed for a time. Its collector wasn't the original owner, though, and she obviously won't be the last. It's a substantial, sculptural piece, and it will go on to stand the test of time. I like to think that each person who enjoys this cuff imprints at least a little bit of themselves into the silver. The silver is elegantly imperfect with areas of texture and naturally darkened patina, some likely from the original sandcasting.

This cuff is sculptural and organic in shape with its rounded and flowing design. It opens to a center diamond shape and either side wraps into a corn stalk motif. It's heftier silver work than many, and it feels substantial on the wrist despite the open work design. Made to be worn and lived in.

The piece is unsigned and measures 5 3/4" inside plus a 1" opening. Width is 2". Unsigned. 

Summary:

Item:
Cuff bracelet

Attribution:
Navajo

Materials:
Sterling silver (sandcast)

Dimensions:
Inside circumference: 5 3/4"
Opening: 1"
Width: 2"

Weight 95 grams

Signature:
Unsigned

Provenance:
From a New York City private collection

Heavy vintage Navajo sandcast bracelet of silver.