Orange Spiny Oyster Rectangular Cuff with Rope Bezel by J. Nelson, Navajo

J. Nelson, a Navajo silversmith, set a large rectangular orange spiny oyster cabochon in a rope bezel on this solid sterling silver cuff. Spiny oyster (Spondylus) shell from the Sea of Cortez has been traded across the American Southwest for over a thousand years and orange spiny oyster was among the most prized materials in pre-Columbian Pueblo trade networks. The rectangular cut — less common than oval or freeform in Navajo jewelry — gives this piece a modern geometric quality. Available exclusively through Turquoise Mustang.