Bidspirit auction | Navajo Sterling Silver and Turquoise

Navajo Sterling Silver and Turquoise Bison Belt Buckle - A Navajo rectangular sterling silver belt buckle featuring a central repoussé motif of an American bison in profile. The bison is decorated with a rectangular field of turquoise and red stone chip inlay. Positioned in the upper right is a large oval turquoise cabochon with black matrix, secured in a serrated bezel and surrounded by a stamped crescent design. The composition is further embellished with stamped geometric patterns, including zig-zags and stepped motifs, and bordered along the top and bottom with rows of crescent and sawtooth stamps. On the reverse, the buckle is fitted with a fixed silver bar and pin closure. Near the top edge of the reverse is a faint impressed mark reading STERLING. Centrally located on the reverse is an impressed monogram consisting of a capital R with the right leg extending to form a V; the monogram is not legible as a name. Width: 3 inches Height: 2.25 inches Weight: 1.095 ozt. The buckle is in good vintage condition. There is general surface scratching and scuffing across the silver consistent with age and use (photo 2). Darkening from oxidation and patina is present in the recessed areas of the design (photo 1). Small spots of green verdigris are visible on the reverse near the hardware hinges (photo 2). The turquoise cabochon shows natural matrix and minor surface pits, and all inlay stones appear secure and intact (photo 3). The reverse hardware is functional.