Pawn Jewelry-Navajo sandcast style bracelet

Navajo handcrafted cuff bracelet is made of solid sterling. Signed by the artist John King . It features a unique overlay style called "sandcast"a style of Navajo jewelry was first created by silversmiths sometime between 1840 and 1860. The basis of this process is a mold made by carving the desired design into a stone. Using this mold, a piece of jewelry is made. This wonderful example has a piece of Kingman turquoise in the center surrounded by bead wire. The bracelet has a medium wieght and is easy to wear.  It comes attached to its original red pawn ticket.The term "pawn" refers to jewelry that has been pawned to brokers. The practice of pawning jewelry began in the early 1900s when Native Americans and traders would exchange jewelry for food and other necessities, it is still used today and is embedded in the their culture. 

Material: Sterling silver & turquoise

Tribe affiliation: Navajo

Time period: current

Bracelet measurements:3/4" wide- Inside measurements :5-1/2" with 1-3/8" opening

** This bracelet will fit wrist sizes from 6-1/2" to 6-3/4"