I’m not really sure how to name this topic. We’ve all found pieces (unmarked) stated to be a specific NA type or a known maker. I think it would be interesting to discuss these, we may learn something and maybe laugh a bit!
I saw this unsigned bracelet in an antique shop labeled Zuni. What do y’all think? (Sorry, I should have gotten better photos)
Were there any hallmarks or sterling on it?
The clasp reminds me of Edwardian/Victorian bracelets.
The inlay looks old Zuni to me. I agree that the panels and the links are unusual. Hard to see your from your photo the size of it. It could be a repurposed piece. Any chance it could have been a watch cuff sort of thing? It could also just be a one off by an amateur silversmith or someone just starting out. I would not question that it is NA.
@Bmpdvm I like this thread topic! Off the cuff, this doesn’t look Zuni to me. The construction doesn’t look like Zuni work, imo. I’m thinking Mexican made. The separate panels, jump ring connectors, safety chain, and type of closure are, imo, classic Mexican jewelry components.
Though, I can understand where the inlaid turquoise could lead us to think Zuni. Curious as to what others on the forum think about it.
@fernwood, unfortunately no marks of any kind!
@Christibo; yep the Zuni-type inlay and the beautiful aged turquoise is what caught my eye…then I saw the construction and thought nope! it didn’t look repurposed, but who knows. if I’m back in the area, I’ll get better photos. Wish it had been a true Zuni inlay cuff😄.
I agree with @Patina, Mexican came to mind due to the linked panels… and those ugly jump rings!
Here’s a Storyteller bracelet that I purchased many, many years ago. Even though it has representational elements of NA/SW life: people, hogan, weaving, horse, plants, goat, I’ve never considered it Native American made. Maybe others would, though. The construction of link panels, safety chain and type of closure doesn’t look like NA work to me. It’s hallmarked, though not with the usual Mexico hallmarks that I’m accustomed to seeing. Anglo made? The hallmark is unidentified.
Interesting bracelet! Certainly appears well constructed. I agree; the type of closure reminds me of Taxco, or other Mexican silverwork. As I recall most Mexican silver pieces I’ve seen have .925, .950, etc, rather than “Sterling.” Also, I see similarities to typical Navajo storyteller motifs, but something about the design looks off. So I’m no help🥴, hopefully more knowledgable folks will weigh in.
Hey Christibo!! How r u!
Pretty, I’d wear it!
I’m voting Mexican on your bracelet.
Perhaps Mixtec- Mexican, like the work of Frederico Jimenez a piece with similar inlay sold at auction at invaluable auction site.
I his jewelry. Federico – Garland's
I remember reading that he was friends with someone who gave their entire collection of high grade turquoise and gems to him because he was such a good artist. So obviously, he uses top stones in his work.
@nanc9354, I’m not really knowledgable about Jemenez jewelry, but I certainly appreciate his jewelry, especially this inlay cuff posted by @sjs. Your statement about the use of quality turquoise makes sense…In my opinion the turquoise in this cuff has that Blue Gemmish () look.
He’s pretty prolific; I’m assuming he employs other jewelers to produce his designs?