Bracelet c. 1930s

This bracelet was crafted by a Navajo artist using silver and turquoise, though the exact date of its creation remains unknown. As you can see, the bracelet's design features a series of turquoise stones set in silver, reflecting a blend of aesthetic beauty and cultural meaning central to Diné artistry. The use of turquoise is particularly significant. Sourced from the American Southwest, turquoise is not merely a decorative element. It is deeply embedded in the Navajo worldview, embodying protection, good fortune, and connection to the land. Silver, introduced by European settlers, became another medium for Diné artists to express their cultural identity. Such objects are important historical records, documenting the complex interactions between indigenous communities and colonial influences. As historians, we look at how trade, cultural exchange, and power dynamics have influenced the production and reception of such art forms. By consulting historical archives, anthropological studies, and Diné cultural resources, we can learn more about this bracelet's history.