A grouping of three handmade sterling silver Southwest belt buckles largest example: 3 inches in width. (with all marked sterling, two with makers marks) Approximate total weight: 147 gTurner Auctions + Appraisals is very pleased to offer Part 2 of the private collection of Southwest jewelry from a major dealer/collector. The extensive multi-part sale features Native American works from the Navajo, Zuni and Hopi. Offerings in Part 2 include solid silver jewelry (bracelets, rings, necklaces); watch bands and cuffs; belts, belt buckles and caps; ketos; money clips; bolo ties; a silver desk set; and a David Spellerbery sculpture.

The owner was a major dealer and collector of Navajo, Zuni and Hopi jewelry in Southern California for over 30 years. From the mid-1970s to the early 2000s, he operated a retail business that sold vintage, contemporary and custom Southwest jewelry to movie studios, prop and costume houses, and collectors. All items at auction are "from the vault" - ones that were reserved for personal use or set aside for future appreciation. Everything in the collection is original and hand-made. Most items are crafted of solid silver - either coin or sterling silver, embellished with gem-quality turquoise or coral stones, gold or coins; and elaborate hand-cut bezels. The majority were crafted by talented artists; many are maker-stamped. Some are vintage ceremonial pieces; other contemporary pieces feature gold enhancements. Many are museum-quality items. None of the pieces have color-enhanced stones, or are plated with silver or nickel. Overall, the owner's quest was to obtain top-quality items that were out of the ordinary - the finest examples of handwork they could find.