Material: Sterling Silver, Turquoise, Coral
Dimensions: 1-1/8" x 2-1/8"
Weight (in grams): 24.5
Hallmark/Signature: Sterling
Chip inlay is the process in which channels are filled with resin or epoxy and crushed stone. Once the resin/epoxy dried, the piece was then sanded and polished smooth leaving a mosaic of stone in the channel. This technique was developed by Navajos in the 1950-60's, and is often credited to Tommy Singer (also Charlie Singer and Willie Singer); however, there were many other artist doing the same process in the same era; in fact, my mother Frances Begay raised my brothers and me making and selling her chip inlay jewelry. This vintage-style of work is classic Navajo style of the 1970's.
This piece is a stunning example of classic Navajo jewelry. This piece is handmade out of sterling silver and genuine stones.
The clip itself is made out of nickel, as it is a harder metal to uphold the springiness of the clip. Only the work on top of the clip is sterling silver (ie-bezel and decorations).
