Vintage Navajo Turquoise and Sterling Silver Ring, Size 11 3/4, Stamped MAX.C

Description

This striking vintage ring is an authentic piece of Southwestern/Native American jewelry, a genre celebrated for its deep cultural roots and exquisite craftsmanship. The ring showcases two beautiful, natural turquoise cabochons set in hand-cut sawtooth bezels, an iconic element of this style.

This piece falls into the category often associated with Navajo jewelry, although Native American artisans from various tribes in the Southwest, like the Zuni and Hopi, also produce similar work. Southwestern jewelry is highly valued for its use of natural materials, especially turquoise, which holds spiritual significance for many Indigenous peoples. The craft evolved from early techniques learned from Spanish silversmiths, with artisans later developing their own distinctive styles. Common motifs include elements of the natural world, such as feathers, leaves, and various scroll and ropework patterns, all meticulously worked in sterling silver. Pieces like this ring are often one-of-a-kind, handcrafted using traditional techniques such as stamping, casting, and setting stones. The overall design features beautiful detail with an applied feather/leaf design on the sides, along with ornate silver balls and scrollwork surrounding the stones, giving it a rich, textural feel.

Crafted from sterling silver, this substantial ring weighs 9.7 grams and measures a comfortable size 11 3/4 on the mandrel, as shown. The inside of the ring is clearly marked with the maker's stamp, MAX.C, indicating the artisan who produced this unique work. The band itself has a beautiful undulating or wavy profile on the top and bottom edges, adding to its artisanal charm. This ring is a timeless statement piece and a wonderful addition to any collection of vintage or Southwestern jewelry.