I have a belt that belonged to my grandmother. I’m not sure how old it is. It looks like there’s a price of $750.00 on the buckle but again i dont know when it was matked at that price. If i had to guess i would say late 70’s to early 80’s. There is a stamp on the buckle “Ben” with “sterling” under the name. I’ve found a couple of Bens but not one to match.
Also, the belt is pretty tarnished so i was wondering if i cleaned the conchos would that reduce the belts value?
Hi, nice belt. Are you planning to keep it? If so a polishing cloth would be fine. If you are selling you might want to let the buyer decide.
Really nice belt. 80s - 90s is a good guess. The belt is not that old, and while well made, this isn’t “patina” which develops over time on a piece that is worn. The belt is badly tarnished, and it’s difficult to appreciate the quality of the work in its current state. A good professional finish is unlikely to affect the value negatively, and you may get a higher price once a buyer can see what it is they’re buying.
The key here is finishing work by a professional who can leave a bit of aged patina, and preserve the integrity of the natural turquoise while bringing out the beauty of the work. This definitely isn’t something you want to take on by yourself.
With regard to value. Like anything else, it’s worth exactly what someone is willing to pay for it. If you’d like a professional appraisal, I would advise engaging the services of a professional.
Thanks for the replies. My plan is to sell it so hopefully i can find a professional in the South Texas area to clean it up for me.
Be very careful of those claimed “professionals” @EdChapa . I’ve seen valuable antiques ruined by some even after they charged a handsome fee for their services. I’ve restored many items and it typically only requires research, time, and a certain skill level. @mmrogers just did a lot of the work for you already by identifying age and that it was tarnish.
There aren’t many people with real expertise in Navajo concha belts still in business in South Texas. Jason Maida, at Maida’s Belts and Buckles on Westheimer in Houston specializes in higher end buckles and belts. You might want to give Maidas a call and learn whether they might be interested in your belt. He or any other dealer has to make a profit, so it wouldn’t be a retail purchase, but I do know if Jason wants it, he’ll offer a fair price.
Sure am glad for the info! I might contact them about the one I have.
Thank you very much for the helpful information
