Value of Running Bear ring

I’ve posted this ring before looking for information on the artist stamp. I’ve found out through Running Bear that the stamp isn’t from any of their makers and was likely just added. I’m hoping to sell and was curious if anyone might be able to determine a value.

We don‘t really do values or appraisals here, @Gab. What I can tell you is that this piece is an odd one. The style is Navajo which is interesting, because traditionally Navajo people avoid anything to do with owls like the plague, since they’re considered a bad omen and are believed to herald impending death in that culture.

Great item for Haloween, but I don‘t recommend trick or treating on the rez with that ring on.

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Thanks. I found that very interesting. Then I remembered I recently bought a small cute owl pin. So this is either Mexico or perhaps Fred Harvey? I know the Zuni use a lot of owls in their inlay jewelry.

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https://gem.app/search?terms=sterling owl ring

:joy: Yeah, very good point!

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Cool pin! You’re on the money. Not a Zuni taboo. To me the composition of this cool little owl looks very much like Zuni work.

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I’ve always found it interesting that the Zuni have a great respect and appreciation for owls as wise and spiritual, whereas Navajo, and some other NA peoples fear owls (because of their foreboding association with nighttime activities, darkness and maybe witchcraft?). I have a collection of vintage pottery owls, mostly Zuni, but also Acoma, Jemez, and Laguna, and we’ve all seen mosaic overlay/inlay and other Zuni owl jewelry.
I’m sure the difference in philosophy and beliefs has a time tested logical basis, likely beyond what we understand.

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True. One doesn’t have to understand, or share a belief system to respect the traditions of those who practice it.

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Check out this topic. That R. Livingston mark is an enigma.

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Rez Dogs :rofl:

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Hi ~ I just came across this on eBay. Your wonderful little owl pin has a sibling. I like your pin best :slightly_smiling_face:.

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Yes. Thank you, Patina. I have seen a couple of these on the internet. At least this one doesn’t claim to be Navajo like the others. Mike said the Navajo never do owls! mine has a better PATINA! :wink:

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