Up for your consideration is this brand new Native American handmade Sterling Silver bolo, featuring four large genuine Sleeping Beuaty turquoise stones and a large piece of branch coral. The bolo is hand made by Zuni legends Robert & Bernice Leekya. The fancy silver bolo tips have turquoise & coral on them also. Robert Leekya jewelry is always adorned with natural, gem quality turquoise and this bolo is no exception.
The main bolo piece measures 3 inches tall by 2 inches wide. The silver tips are 2 long, not counting the turquoise & coral dangles, which measure an additional 1 long by 7/8 wide. The black bolo cord is about 38 inches long, including the tips.
Brand new and in perfect condition. Hallmarked by the artists. Gift box & Certificate of Authenticity included with your purchase.
Robert Leekya is the son of famous Zuni jeweler Leekya Deyuse. His father began teaching him the art of jewelry making in the 1940's. In the 1950's. Robert began working in the nugget style. He and Dan Simplicio were among the first to make nugget jewelry. Robert & his wife Bernice have worked in both gold and silver.
The Leekya'a work is becoming increasing difficult to obtain since Robert's recent health problems. They are not producing much jewelry these days. In addition, due to the closing of the Sleeping Beauty turquoise mine, the prices on any new jewelry that they make, reflects the increases in the price of Sleeping Beauty turquoise.