Octagonal Inlay Ring with Side Inlay by Don Dewa

Fabulous example of Zuni inlay craftsmanship in this octagon-shaped channel inlay design by artist Don Dewa. Piece features meticulously cut slices of turquoise, jet, coral and malachite alternating with thin sheets of sterling silver in a geometric inlay design. The inlay channels continue horizontally around the sides of the band... amazing piece!

Materials: Sterling silver, turquoise, jet, coral, malachite Jet (black elements) is a product of high-pressure decomposition of wood from millions of years ago, commonly the wood of trees. Native American Navajo and Pueblo tribes of New Mexico were using regionally mined jet for jewelry and the ornamentation of weapons when early Spanish explorers reached the area in the 1500’s.Today these jet deposits are known as Acoma jet, for the Acoma Pueblo.

RED CORAL: The coral seen in the Southwest is mainly Red Mediterranean Branch Coral. Coral’s red color has important symbolic meaning in the Native American culture. It represents, for example, heat or fire, representing the spirit within, energy, and power. It was originally traded between the Spanish and various pueblos and the Navajo (Diné) people of the Southwest. Native Americans also consider the gem as a sign of wealth and status because of its expense and rarity.

Malachite is a green gem that's common in many areas of the world. It's a copper carbonate mineral that was the first ore to produce copper. Malachite forms inside limestone and is found in caverns in parts of Australia, France, and Arizona. The first deposits were found in Egypt and Israel over 4000 years ago.

Measurements: Mounting measures 5/8" x 5/8". Band tapers from 3/8" to 1/8" wide.