Dear Friends,
As Director of Fine Jewelry at Alex Cooper Auctioneers, I have the privilege of handling extraordinary jewelry collections every day. Every so often, however, a collection comes along that reminds me why I have always been drawn to jewelry, not simply for its beauty, but for the history, craftsmanship, and stories each piece carries with it. I am thrilled to share with you an exceptional collection of vintage Southwestern jewelry featured in our American History Auction on Wednesday, July 22nd. Researching and cataloging this collection has been one of the highlights of my year. I can honestly say I don't know if I've ever seen so many outstanding examples of fine Southwestern jewelry gathered in one auction.
As I worked through the collection, a few pieces truly stopped me in my tracks.
This remarkable necklace showcases coveted Morenci turquoise, mined in southeastern Arizona and prized for its vivid sky-blue color, often accented by sparkling pyrite matrix. Since the Morenci Mine ceased producing gem-quality turquoise decades ago, exceptional examples have become increasingly scarce and highly sought after by collectors.
The squash blossom necklace itself is one of the most recognizable forms of Native American jewelry. Adapted by Navajo silversmiths in the late nineteenth century from earlier Spanish and Mexican silverwork, these necklaces have become enduring symbols of artistry, craftsmanship, and cultural tradition. Their bold presence makes them as timeless today as they were generations ago.
Zuni artists are renowned for their extraordinary lapidary skills and precision stonework. Many Zuni jewelers create breathtaking designs by carefully hand-cutting and fitting turquoise with remarkable accuracy. Every stone is shaped, polished, and set by hand, resulting in jewelry that is both technically impressive and visually stunning.
This magnificent wide cuff beautifully showcases the patience, artistry, and craftsmanship that have made Zuni jewelry so highly regarded by collectors around the world.
One of the true highlights of this collection is this exceptional signed squash blossom necklace by renowned Zuni artist Vera Luna. Luna is celebrated for her masterful inlay work and is regarded as one of the most accomplished Zuni jewelry artists of the twentieth century. Her meticulously crafted designs are admired for their precision, balance, and artistic beauty.
The Waterbird motif holds special significance in Southwestern art, symbolizing water, rain, renewal, and life: elements essential to the cultures of the Southwest. Vera Luna's elegant interpretation of this iconic design, created with beautifully matched inlaid stones, has made her Waterbird jewelry especially desirable among collectors of Native American art.
These are just three of the remarkable treasures included in this auction. You'll also discover an exceptional selection of signed Navajo and Zuni jewelry, including additional squash blossom necklaces, concho belts, bolo ties, wide sterling silver cuff bracelets, rings, earrings, and many other outstanding works by celebrated Native American artists. Whether you're an established collector, searching for a statement piece, or simply appreciate extraordinary craftsmanship, I encourage you to browse the entire catalog. Collections of this quality and depth rarely come to market, and I truly believe you'll discover pieces that both inspire and educate.
I hope you enjoy exploring this remarkable collection as much as I enjoyed bringing it to auction. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me with questions about these pieces. All Southwestern Jewelry lots begin at Lot 2500. I look forward to seeing you on July 20th and 21st for the in-person preview and July 22nd for the Live auction.
You can preview you the entire auction by visiting the link below:
Warm Regards,
Selden Morgan
GIA Graduate Jeweler Gemologist
Director of Sales & Fine Jewelry
Direct: 410-828-4960
Main Office: 410-828-4838
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