Navajo turquoise bracelets are some of the most recognizable forms of Native American jewelry. The blue and green tones of turquoise, often set in sterling silver, give the bracelets a balance of color and texture, admired by collectors and wearers alike. These pieces are handmade by respected artists who continue the jewelry-making traditions that date back more than a century. Some designs may feature a single stone with clean stamp work, while others show clusters of stones. Each bracelet combines uniqueness, cultural heritage, and skill, created using methods passed down through generations of Navajo silversmiths.
Understanding the Cultural and Historical Significance of Navajo Turquoise Bracelets
Turquoise has been an important part of Navajo culture for centuries. This gemstone, often called “the stone of life,” is seen as a sacred stone that connects the earth and the sky. It is believed that turquoise brings protection and good fortune. It is also sometimes placed in homes or hung from the ceiling to ward off harm.
The Navajo began shaping turquoise into jewelry long before silver work was introduced in the late 1800s, in the form of heishi beads. When they learned silversmithing through contact with Spanish settlers, the Navajo began setting turquoise into sterling silver. Early Navajo bracelets were often heavy silver bands, frequently made from silver ingots, and typically featuring no stones.
Explore SilverTQ’s Navajo Turquoise Bracelets
Navajo turquoise bracelets come in a variety of designs. Each bracelet shows the artist’s unique approach to shape, texture, and color beautifully. Some designs feature single turquoise stones set on wide sterling silver cuffs, while others highlight clusters or rows of smaller turquoise stones. SilverTQ offers bracelets handmade by skilled Navajo silversmiths who use techniques such as stamp work, tufa casting, and overlay with different varieties of turquoise, including Bisbee, Kingman, and Sonoran gold.
Bisbee Turquoise Bracelets
High-grade Bisbee turquoise bracelets feature turquoise stones in rich shades of blue with warm brown or reddish matrix patterns. The turquoise is set in premium sterling silver cuffs that are both durable and unique. Each bracelet in our collection is handmade by Navajo artists who carefully shape and polish the stones before setting them into the silver. The designs often feature detailed stamp work, tufa casting, hand-sawed bezels, appliqué, and oxidized finishes. Some pieces also feature subtle gold accents around the stones to give the bracelets a balanced look.
Kingman Turquoise Bracelets
Kingman turquoise is a prized variety of the stone, often showcasing sky blues or greens, typically accented by a dark matrix. Some of the collection’s Kingman turquoise bracelets feature single stones, while others incorporate stones arranged in striking clusters. Each of these bracelets is handmade using traditional Navajo techniques, including stamp work, saw work, appliqué, and twisted wire. These bracelets may have a satin finish with an oxidized background that brings out every hand-carved detail. Some designs use three to five large stones set separately in their own sections, creating raised clusters, and others use rows of stones placed together along the cuff.
Sonoran Gold Turquoise Bracelets
Sonoran gold turquoise bracelets stand out for their vivid mix of blue and green tones set against a golden matrix. This collection’s bracelets may feature single stones, rows of stones, or stone clusters set in sterling silver. The turquoise is usually placed in smooth bezels bordered by silver beads or appliqué details that add structure to the piece. The silver work sometimes reflects the “old style” approach seen in many Navajo designs, reminiscent of vintage pieces. Artists use techniques such as stamp work, saw work, twisted wire, and chisel work, with a satin finish and an oxidized background to highlight the turquoise’s natural color.
Other Collections
This collection features bracelets made with prized turquoise from mines such as Royston, Carico Lake, Pilot Mountain, and Ithaca Peak. There are cluster bracelets with multiple stones set in floral arrangements, cobblestone inlay, bracelets with no stones, bangles, wide cuffs, and other styles. Some of the unique designs feature butterfly and dragonfly motifs or turquoise and coral combinations. Each bracelet is handmade by accomplished Navajo silversmiths known for their use of precise detailing and rich symbolism.
Styling Tips
Navajo turquoise bracelets are handmade of sterling silver with vibrant turquoise. They are suitable for both casual wear and formal occasions, provided the wearer’s individual style and personality are taken into account. Since this jewelry is one of a kind, it cannot be resized easily, so it is advised to check the size carefully before making a purchase. Here are a few tips to help you style the bracelet.
- Pair a turquoise cuff with neutrally colored, natural fabrics like cotton or denim for a classic look.
- Combine different bracelet widths, such as a bold turquoise piece with a few thinner sterling silver bangles, to create a balanced look.
- Match turquoise bracelets with rings or earrings featuring similar stones for a cohesive look.
- If you are going for a formal look, opt for slimmer cuffs or bracelets with smaller turquoise stones for subtle color accents.
- For a softer aesthetic, wear a single turquoise bracelet with simple silver jewelry to let the stone stand out on its own.
Shop Navajo Turquoise Bracelets at SilverTQ
Each Navajo turquoise bracelet in SilverTQ’s collection is handmade by talented Native American silversmiths who continue a tradition of artistry that spans generations. The bracelets incorporate highly sought-after varieties of natural turquoise set in sterling silver or gold. Browse the full range of Navajo turquoise bracelets on the website to find a design that matches your style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How should I clean my Navajo turquoise bracelet?
Gently wipe the stones with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust or oil residue. Do not use soap, water, or chemical cleaners, since the turquoise is porous and will become damaged. If the silver starts to lose its shine, use silver polish on a soft cloth to clean the jewelry. After cleaning, store the bracelet in a pouch or a jewelry box to protect it from moisture, sunlight, and scratches.
How durable are Navajo turquoise bracelets?
Navajo turquoise bracelets are moderately durable, depending on the softness of the turquoise. The silver cuffs hold their shape and can last for many years, while turquoise is a natural stone that can be softer than other gems. Avoid impact and keep the bracelet away from any surfaces that could scratch the stones.
