Vintage Southwest Native American Sterling Silver Red Mediterranean Coral Ring

Description

This striking statement ring is a quintessential example of Southwest Native American jewelry, a genre deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi peoples. Emerging in the late 19th century as silversmithing techniques were shared and refined, this style became world-renowned for its bold use of high-quality turquoise and coral set in heavy hand-wrought silver. This particular piece features a vibrant, elongated specimen of Mediterranean Red Coral, a material highly prized in the Southwest for its deep "oxblood" hues and organic texture. The stone is securely housed in a sawtooth bezel and framed by a shadowbox-style border of scalloped silver and classic raindrop accents. The artisan craftsmanship is evident in the substantial split-shank band which provides both stability and comfort for daily wear. Weighing a solid 8.5 grams, this ring makes a significant presence on the hand. The face of the ring measures approximately 1 1/8" length by 9/16" width, creating a long, flattering silhouette on the finger. It is currently a size 6 3/4 and remains in excellent vintage condition with a beautiful natural patina that highlights the depth of the silverwork.

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.