The artist hallmark on the back of a piece of jewelry tells us who made that piece. This category is for the Turquoise People community to help put a name to that hallmark.
Does anyone recognize this rather elaborate “MK” mark? Also marked “Silver” instead of “Sterling”.
Looking for a good belt buckle.
@diriklolkus Hi & Welcome. That’s a good looking turquoise & silver belt buckle. Sorry, I don’t recognize the hallmark. I checked my Bille Hougart’s book on “Native American and Southwestern Silver Hallmarks” but this hallmark isn’t shown. There were a couple of “MK” listings but no matches. You may want to try Google Lens for help in identifying this hallmark. I’m leaning toward the buckle being artisan made and not necessarily Native American. The design elements, in the four quadrants, don’t look like NA work, imo.
Thanks for the response. Then I keep looking and remain patient.
The stone in the buckle is good. Looks like natural Kingman. There is real value there. I don’t think you’re going to find a Native American silversmith behind the fabrication of the buckle. Looking at the style and quality of work, it looks like whoever made this was seeking to emulate Hopi style silversmithing. The design is pleasing, but it’s clear the work itself is not from a truly practiced hand in terms of quality of the saw work, which is uneven and choppy in places. Without provenance origin is anyone’s guess.
I keep looking because I want something from real hands (and spirit). I’m glad this site has people who are willing to share knowledge. I’m looking for something that has nice turquoise and good silver work both!
