MATERIALS:
Sterling silver, real Turquoise, and man made Opal.
MEASUREMENTS:
The inner bracelet circumference measures approximately 5-3/8", plus a 1-1/8" opening, and 1/4" at widest point.
DESCRIPTION:
The beautiful features in this bracelet will make you appreciate Native American art! This piece of Native American jewelry is Zuni hand crafted by artist Effie Calavaza, out of genuine sterling silver, along with real Turquoise, and man made Opal stones. The bracelet has a total of NINE stones, FIVE of which are delicately set in hand cut bezels in the midst of two amazing silver snake designs, while the other FOUR are inlaid and create the snakes' eyes. Mini silver beads and imprinted patterns can be seen highlighting the cuff for a magnificent finish. The snake is found in many healing and fertility rituals. It is also connected with lightning, speed, and being able to move undetected. The bracelet is stamped Zuni and is hallmarked by artist.
Turquoise is the birthstone of December. It is believed that turquoise tends to bring good fortune, strength and helps overcome illness. Turquoise got its name from the Levantine traders called Turks who brought the stone to Europe from Persia via Turkey centuries ago. Native Americans have prized turquoise since the time of the Aztecs, who mined it in New Mexico. The natural variations that occur in turquoise are part of its appeal and beauty.
Most people know Opal for its distinctive play of color, it is a semi-transparent solidified mineral composed of silicon and water, and it gets its name from the Latin word "Oplus" meaning precious stone. Opal is the birthstone for October. It is believed to release self-consciousness allowing spontaneous action, and awakens psychic and mystical qualities.
Well-known artist Effie Calavaza is from the Zuni Tribe, which is located in New Mexico. Effie was taught by her husband Juan Calavaza and began silver work in 1956. She combined her husband's work and her designs to create some of the most beautiful and most distinctive Native American art! Her hand done work is among the best and most recognized jewelry in the southwest. Her jewelry is stamped with the family hallmark EFFIE C. ZUNI, which is used by Effie and her three daughters Georgiana Yatsattie, Gloria Jean Garcia, and Susie Calavaza. Effie's daughters assist her in the jewelry making (she shared her spouse's mark, JUAN C. ZUNI, until his death ca. 1970). To this day Effie's work is collected throughout the world and she continues making jewelry because she enjoys it!
