Zuni Pueblo Twentieth Century Cluster Turquoise Bracelet [SOLD]

This is a very traditional bracelet favored by Diné and Pueblo cultures.  Both Diné and Zuni artisans make similar ones and it is often difficult to determine the origin of a particular one.  One must remember that Zuni craftsmen learned the art of silversmithing from the Diné, but Zuni jewelers very soon favored using turquoise as the predominant design whereas the Diné preferred silverwork with minimum turquoise.   According to Mera (1960:43-49] the Diné produced only a “limited amount of this (cluster) exuberant style.   

Circles of round and elongated turquoise gemstones cover the face of the bracelet.  There are three circles of turquoise settings surrounding a pair of oval turquoise in the center.  Twisted silver wire rope separates the circles.

The foundation of the bracelet consists of three silver wires over which is a sheet silver base to which the turquoise on the top are attached.  Each side shank features five oval turquoise cabs attached over a sheet silver foundation. 

The cluster style bracelet had its beginnings in the 1930s and has continued in popularity since.  At Native events, Diné women and Pueblo women are seen wearing cluster bracelets as a favored style.

Condition: original condition

Provenance: this Zuni Pueblo Twentieth Century Cluster Turquoise Bracelet is from the collection of a resident of Texas

Reference: Mera, Harry P. Indian Silverwork of the Southwest: Illustrated Vol. 1 (1940)

Relative Links: Southwest Indian Jewelry, Zuni Pueblo, Navajo Nation - Diné

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