Native American Bolo Ties in Silver & Turquoise

Bolo Tie Features:

• .925 sterling silver
• Kingman turquoise polished to a shine
• Genuine bear claw
• Raised leaf appliqués
• Well-crafted, heavy-gauge silverwork
• Clip cord grip in good working condition
• Construction consistent with Navajo silverwork traditions
• Condition: “Very Fine” - see SCJ's Vintage Condition Guide

Bolo Tie Specifications:

• Turquoise stone: 3/4” x 11/16” (bezel to bezel)
• Slide: 2 1/4” x 1 1/2” (size medium)
• Total length: 45" (includes tips)
• Cord condition: like-new (any markings are due to the installation of the cord through the slide clip)
• Weight: 51.1 grams
  

ABOUT THIS PIECE: This vintage bolo tie is unsigned, common in early pieces, yet its construction techniques, materials, and design elements are characteristic of traditional Navajo silversmithing. The pairing of turquoise and bear claw has deep roots in Navajo jewelry-making tradition, and it's found primarily in vintage work, with occasional revival pieces honoring this heritage. The bear claw carries cultural significance as a symbol of strength and protection, while Kingman turquoise, one of Arizona's most legendary mines, is prized for its vibrant blue hues. Delicate leaf appliqués frame the natural elements without overwhelming them, showcasing thoughtful silversmithing that honors both materials.

Finished with a black braided leather cord and silver tips, this bolo tie carries a strong sense of identity and heritage—an expressive vintage piece for collectors drawn to thoughtful design honoring Navajo and Western traditions, turquoise-and-claw pairing, and enduring craftsmanship.

PERFECT FOR:

• Collectors of authentic Native American jewelry
• Collectors of bear-themed jewelry and accessories
• Southwestern and Boho style enthusiasts
• Those seeking statement accessories with cultural significance
• Admirers of Kingman turquoise and natural materials
• Anyone valuing traditional craftsmanship and heritage design

Bolo Tie Features:

• .925 sterling silver
• Sleeping Beauty turquoise & red-orange coral
• Signed by the artisan (Elaine Sam)
• Two genuine bear claws
• Rigid double-ring cord grip in good working condition
• Condition: “Very Fine” - see SCJ's Vintage Condition Guide

Bolo Tie Specifications:

• The turquoise measures approximately 5/16" by 1/2” from bezel to bezel, and the coral is just shy of 1/4” by almost 1/2” (the thickness of the stones affects these measurements)
• The bolo slide measures approximately 3” by 2 5/8”
  
• Cord and tips are approximately 45” long and are in good vintage condition with only minor signs of wear
  
• 69.2 grams
  

Crafted by the late Navajo artist Elaine Sam, this bolo tie reflects the bold imagery and material choices that defined her work. The sandcast sterling silver slide features a sculptural animal motif accented by silver leaves and genuine claws, grounded in Navajo tradition where such imagery is associated with strength, protection, and healing.

Sam’s signature use of Sleeping Beauty turquoise and coral anchors the composition. The turquoise, sourced from Arizona’s renowned Sleeping Beauty mine, displays a bright blue tone with natural matrix present, appreciated by collectors for its organic character. Coral accents introduce warmth and visual contrast while remaining consistent with traditional Southwestern color balance. The sandcast surface lends subtle dimensionality and texture without excess ornamentation.

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 later work and her enduring contribution to contemporary Navajo jewelry—an authentic, collectible piece valued for craftsmanship, material integrity, and cultural resonance.