Navajo Turquoise and Coral Ring Value Guide

This mid-century Navajo ring represents a classic era of Southwestern silversmithing, featuring the iconic pairing of turquoise and coral set in sterling silver. These pieces are highly collectible for their cultural significance and the traditional techniques adapted from 19th-century Mexican plateros.

What Is Navajo Turquoise and Coral Ring Worth?

The typical price range for Navajo Turquoise and Coral Ring is $150 - $180 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The quality and origin of the turquoise stone, specifically the presence of a desirable natural matrix.
• The overall condition of the sterling silver, including the lack of heavy thinning on the band or cracks in the settings.
• The vibrancy and preservation of the coral, as well as the intricacy of the surrounding silver stamp work.
• Historical provenance or evidence of the piece being an early example of intertribal trade jewelry.

How to Identify Navajo Turquoise and Coral Ring?

• Look for characteristic mid-century Navajo metalwork including hand-stamped patterns or twisted wire details around the stone settings.
• Examine the stones for natural variations in color and matrix, typical of authentic turquoise and coral used between 1940 and 1960.
• Check for a 'Sterling' mark or the absence of marks, as many authentic Navajo pieces from this era were not signed by the individual artist.
• Verify the sawtooth or plain bezel settings which were standard for securing stones in traditional Navajo jewelry of this period.

History of Navajo Turquoise and Coral Ring

Navajo jewelry, particularly rings, has a rich history deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual traditions of the Navajo people. Beginning in the mid-19th century, Navajo silversmiths learned techniques from Mexican plateros, quickly adapting them to create unique designs often incorporating natural elements such as turquoise and coral. These materials were not only valued for their aesthetic appeal but also held significant spiritual meaning, believed to offer protection and good fortune. Early pieces were often commissioned by tribal leaders or created for intertribal trade. The intricate metalwork and stone settings evolved over time, becoming highly sought after by collectors and remaining a hallmark of Native American artistry.