Navajo Sterling Silver Bear Paw Cuff Bracelet Pfarlene Spencer Turquoise Shadowbox

Description

This substantial sterling silver cuff bracelet is a striking example of traditional Navajo craftsmanship, signed by the renowned artist Pfarlene Spencer. The piece showcases the classic shadowbox technique, where a top layer of silver featuring cutout designs is overlaid onto a darkened, oxidized base layer. This method creates depth and dramatic contrast, perfectly highlighting the bear paw motifs that march across the band. In Navajo culture, the bear is often revered as a symbol of strength, protection, and leadership, while the bear track represents a good omen or a guide for the journey ahead.

Set within the paw of each track is a vibrant turquoise cabochon, secured in a sawtooth bezel that adds a touch of bright sky blue against the shadowed background. The silver surface is further embellished with stamped accents and chisel marks, adding texture and framing the central design. Weighing an impressive 47.1 grams, this cuff has a solid, heavy feel on the wrist and measures 1 inch wide. The inner circumference is approximately 7.75 inches total, comprised of a 6.25-inch metal length and a 1.5-inch gap, making it suitable for a larger wrist size. The interior is hallmarked with "STERLING" and the artist's signature, "PFARLENE SPENCER," ensuring its authenticity as a Native American handmade treasure. This piece retains its original patina, enhancing the vintage character and highlighting the intricacies of the shadowbox work.

Vintage Condition & Care: All items listed are previously owned and used unless otherwise stated. Please expect signs of wear such as scuffs, blemishes, or imperfections. While most pieces are gently cleaned with a jeweler's cloth or warm soapy water, Native American pieces are left unpolished to preserve the natural patina often desired by collectors.