This heavy sterling silver turquoise bracelet was created by the late Navajo silversmith, Kirk Smith. The bracelet has nine genuine Kingman turquoise stones set high in straight bezels. The cuff is deeply hand-stamped on both the inside and the outside. Sterling silver raindrop beads complete the piece. This bracelet has nine genuine Kingman / or Sleeping Beauty turquoise stones set high in straight bezels. The cuff is deeply hand-stamped on both the inside and the outside. Sterling silver raindrop beads complete the piece. The turquoise stones are the color of a bright New Mexico sky with very little black & iron pyrite matrix.
The bracelet measures 5/8 wide at the widest points. It has an inside end-to-end measurement of 5-7/8 plus a non-adjustable opening gap of 1-1/4. The bracelet weighs 51 grams.
Brand new in perfect condition. Stamped sterling and has Kirk Smith's hallmark. Certificate of Authenticity included and gift box included.
Kirk Smith's style combines the best of the genuine old pawn pieces - the careful craftsmanship, traditional design, and those old style solid stone settings. His work is distinctive, and many know when they see a Kirk Smith piece who the artist is without even having to look at the hallmark. This talented artist has changed his style over the years, but has also remained true to the traditional heavy silver work of the Navajo.
Kirk Smith died tragically on Monday, September 17, 2012. His artistry, craftsmanship and vision will be sorely missed.
We have a dwindling collection of Kirk's bracelets, rings, earrings and pendants available. And once they are gone, they're gone! At the time of his death, Kirk had arguably replaced his mentor and brother-in-law, the late Harry Morgan, as the reigning practitioner of classic revivalist Navajo design. Kirk Smith's work is considered collector and investment quality. With the recent price increases in both turquoise and sterling silver in the last few years, Kirk's beautiful pieces would be an excellent investment not only in terms of their high quality turquoise and precious metal but because of the acclaimed artist who created them. Don't miss your chance to add some of his fine jewelry to your Native American Indian jewelry collection.