NAVAJO 22.5X14.5MM MOP INGOT SILVER RING 1940’S FRED HARVEY ERA TUCSON ESTATE

 From a Catalina Foothills estate in Tucson is this far from ordinary I believe 1940’s or so Navajo silver ring – here with a 22.5×14.5mm local lapidary MOP cabochon set in a handmade fold over bezel. The patinated centerpiece is nicely framed by silver drops at the cardinal points, with additional wirework embellishments elevating things nicely. The shank is composted of pulled half round ingot wire, chisel split at the shoulders in the old manner. To be clear, everything supports an artisanal making sometime during the Roosevelt Administration.  Traditionally crafted ornaments like this were typically offered right alongside the lighter so called Fred Harvey types at remote trading post rest stops in the hinterlands. That said the scale and weight are telling, and the aesthetic decidedly more tribal in comparison.  I can remember foolishly rejecting such striking masterworks back in the 1980’s simply because they didn’t have turquoise – not so much anymore. Weight is good for the form at about 11.9 grams on my portable digital scale. Condition is quite fine with an aura of time to the surfaces. Be aware I have avoided every urge to refresh away or “improve’ upon any natural toning – you want that done you do it. The MOP has benefited from desired evidence of period wearing (the good kind). Read it has achieved “the look”. I see no evidence of any subsequent size alterations to the shank. I’m basically nitpicking for the obsessive and a look at the pics should give a good idea of appearance and condition.  Ring size is about 7 1/2 on my jeweler’s ring mandrel (the lower edge of the shank will reach line on the mandrel). About 1 3/8 in. vertical at the front – good for wearing everyday, and yes it will be noticed. If you prefer  historic Southwestern tribal referenced silver adornment over more recent homage efforts, or simply wish a single immediate improvement to the ambiance of each day, this will have great meaning for you.