Native American Bolo Ties in Silver & Turquoise

Bolo Tie Features:

• .925 sterling silver (unmarked)
• Turquoise cabochon (consistent with Sleeping Beauty material)
• Genuine bear claw
• Hand-chased appliqués
• Heavy-gauge silverwork
• Clip-style clasp
• Construction aligns with Navajo silversmithing
• Unsigned (period appropriate)
• Condition: Very Fine - see SCJ Vintage Condition Guide

Bolo Tie Specifications:

• Turquoise stone: 3/4" x 11/16" (bezel to bezel)
• Slide: 2 1/4" x 1 1/2"
• Total length: 45" (includes tips)
• Cord condition: like-new (light markings are due to the installation of the cord through the slide clip)
• Tips condition: very good (gently worn, light patina)
• Weight: 51.1 grams
  

ABOUT THIS PIECE:

This Native American handcrafted bolo tie is unsigned—common in earlier examples—yet its construction, materials, and stylistic traits are consistent with Navajo silversmithing traditions. The pairing of turquoise and bear claw has longstanding roots in Diné jewelry-making, appearing most frequently in vintage work, with occasional revival pieces honoring that established design heritage.

The bear claw is traditionally regarded as a symbol of strength and protection. The rich blue turquoise cabochon presents visual characteristics of Sleeping Beauty, one of Arizona's most legendary mines. Raised leaf appliqués frame the central elements with restraint, allowing the natural materials to remain the focus of the slide.

Finished with a black braided leather cord and silver tips, this bolo tie carries a presence without excess—an expressive yet grounded piece for collectors drawn to designs that quietly elevate Navajo work within the Western culture.

PERFECT FOR:

• Collectors of authentic Native American jewelry
  
• Southwestern and Boho style enthusiasts who enjoy a unique look over tees or button-down shirts
• Cowboys and cowgirls who appreciate Navajo designs
• Those seeking compact bolos with strong visual impact and cultural significance
• Admirers of unique artisan bear-themed accessories
  

✨ Collectors Circle members receive a welcome offer on their first purchase. 

Bolo Tie Features:

• .925 sterling silver
• Turquoise cabochon consistent with Sleeping Beauty material
• Red coral accent with warm orange overtones
• Sandcast and chased silverwork on slide and appliqués
• Signed by the artisan
• Two genuine bear claws
• Rigid double-ring cord clasp
• Condition: Very Fine - see SCJ Vintage Condition Guide

Bolo Tie Specifications:

• Turquoise: 5/16" x 1/2" (bezel to bezel)
• Coral: 1/4" x 1/2"
• Slide: 3" x 2 5/8" (size medium)
  
• Total length: 45" (includes tips)
• Cord condition: minor signs of wear
  
• Tips condition: very good (gently worn, light patina)
• Weight: 69.2 grams
  

ABOUT THIS PIECE:

This powerful bolo tie by the late Navajo silversmith Elaine Sam centers on a fully dimensional sandcast bear, a recurring motif in her work. Richly textured and sculpturally rendered, the dominant figure projects forward with convincing movement, giving the form vitality rather than a flat ornamental presence. A chased silver leaf rises along each side, introducing lift and contour. Framed within a sweeping double-claw crescent, the composition carries an undercurrent of protection and cohesion, an arrangement that feels intentional and grounded.

The Sleeping Beauty turquoise, associated with one of Arizona’s most celebrated mines, exhibits a clear sky-blue tone with minimal matrix, complemented by a red-orange coral that adds warmth and depth to the ensemble. The dynamic combination of turquoise and coral reflects a longstanding material pairing deeply rooted in Native American silverwork.

Finished with a classic black braided leather cord and silver tips, this piece exemplifies Elaine Sam’s confident approach to form, symbolism, and wearability. It stands as a strong representative example of her work and her enduring contribution to contemporary Navajo jewelry—an authentic, collectible piece valued for craftsmanship, material integrity, and cultural resonance.

ARTISAN NOTE:

Hallmarked "E S," this bolo tie is the work of Navajo silversmith Elaine Sam (circa 1955–2020). Her fuller stamp, "NAVAJO HANDMADE ES," is documented in published hallmark reference books and recognized in trading post records.

Elaine Sam is noted for set-stone jewelry featuring dimensional silverwork and applied elements, particularly bear claw necklaces, bracelets, watches, and pendants. Her designs are recognized for bold symbolism, strong construction, and balanced use of turquoise (often Sleeping Beauty) and coral.

Signed works by Sam are collected for their craftsmanship, material quality, and clear artistic identity within contemporary Navajo jewelry.

PERFECT FOR:

• Collectors of documented Navajo silversmiths
• Enthusiasts of bear and claw symbolism
• Western formalwear and elevated ranch styling
• Those who appreciate statement bolo ties
• Admirers of sandcast silver and sculptural Native design

✨ Collectors Circle members receive a welcome offer on their first purchase.