Navajo Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Ring Value Guide

Period
1970-1985
Origin
United States
Materials
Sterling Silver, Sleeping Beauty Turquoise

This Navajo-crafted ring is a quintessential example of late 20th-century Southwestern smithing, prized for its vibrant Sleeping Beauty turquoise sourced from Globe, Arizona. Its collectible appeal lies in the stone's iconic robin's-egg blue hue and the intricate stamped concho frame that defines the Navajo aesthetic.

What affects the value of Navajo Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Ring?

  • The purity and intensity of the blue color in the Sleeping Beauty turquoise stone.
  • The condition and crispness of the stamped silver concho and rope border details.
  • The historical provenance and era-specific design elements from the 1970-1985 period.
  • Market demand for authentic Native American smithing and natural, untreated Arizona turquoise.

How to Identify Navajo Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Ring?

  • Look for the signature solid blue Sleeping Beauty turquoise cabochon which typically lacks a dark matrix.
  • Examine the bezel for a traditional twisted rope silver border surrounding the stone.
  • Identify the hand-stamped decorative patterns on the silver concho frame characteristic of 1970s-1980s Navajo work.
  • Verify the sterling silver construction, often marked 'Sterling' or '925' on the inner band or backplate.

History of Navajo Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Ring

This piece reflects the Southwestern Native American jewelry traditions, specifically Navajo smithing. The use of 'Sleeping Beauty' turquoise, named after the mountain range in Globe, Arizona, became a hallmark of quality jewelry in the mid-20th century due to its solid blue color and lack of matrix. The ring's design incorporates traditional stamped edges and a twisted rope border around the bezel.

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