Vintage Navajo Sterling Silver & Turquoise Cuff Bracelet by Irene Tsosie View Watchlist >
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Lot # HJ105
System ID # 23887212
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End Date
3 Watching
Vintage Navajo Sterling Silver & Turquoise Cuff Bracelet by Irene Tsosie (Signed)
This vintage Navajo cuff bracelet is handcrafted in tested sterling silver and signed “IRENE TSOSIE”, the hallmark of a respected Diné silversmith. A classic example of Navajo row-style design, the bracelet features five natural turquoise cabochons—a central oval measuring approximately 7.45 × 9.75 mm, flanked by four round stones of about 0.25" in diameter. Each gem is secured in a serrated bezel and accented with applied silver drops, their bright desert-sky blue enriched by the presence of natural matrix.
The wide split-shank band is hand-stamped with traditional motifs, creating a rhythmic interplay of light and shadow across the silver surface. Weighing 56.8 grams, the bracelet combines bold presence with refined detail, embodying the Navajo tradition of wearable art that is both decorative and deeply cultural.
Provenance & Legacy
This cuff was created by Irene Tsosie (1920–2002), a Navajo silversmith who worked extensively in the mid-20th century. Known for her distinctive row bracelets set with turquoise or coral, Tsosie’s pieces are consistently signed “IRENE TSOSIE.”
Her work reflects both the continuity of Navajo silversmithing, which began in the mid-19th century, and the trading-post era, when artisans balanced tradition with new markets. Today, Irene Tsosie’s jewelry is recognized as collectible, representing the craftsmanship of a Navajo woman whose signed works preserve a voice in silver and stone.
Details
- Artist signature: Stamped “IRENE TSOSIE”
- Metal: Sterling silver (tested)
- Gemstones: 5 natural turquoise cabochons
- Center stone: approx. 7.45 × 9.75 mm
- Four round stones: approx. 0.25" (6–7 mm) diameter
- Setting: Sawtooth bezels with applied silver drops
- Design motifs: Split-shank cuff with hand-stamped arrow/chevron patterns
- Cultural style: Navajo, Southwestern Native American jewelry
Dimensions & Specifications
- Interior circumference (with 0.75" opening): approx. 5.75" (14.6 cm)
- Overall profile: 2.1" × 2.46" × 0.77" (5.3 × 6.2 × 2 cm)
- Height off wrist: 0.35" (9 mm)
- Weight: 56.8 g (2.00 oz)
- Fit: Small to medium wrist sizes
Condition
Good vintage condition. Stones are secure in their settings with natural inclusions visible. Light surface wear and patina consistent with age; polishing is left to the buyer’s discretion. Bracelet may be adjusted slightly with care or by a professional jeweler.
Conclusion
A signed Navajo turquoise cuff by Irene Tsosie (1920–2002)—a silversmith of note from the Atkinson Trading Co. era. At once wearable and collectible, this bracelet offers both historical resonance and enduring Southwestern beauty.
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Please Note:
- Diamond and gemstone weights, colors, and clarity grades are approximate and determined while mounted.
- Treatment of colored stones, pearls, and other gemstones to enhance their appearance is common; these treatments may or may not be noted.
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