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SKU:00023BO2C2NJ12547
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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.
1. All items in our inventory are pre-loved vintage pieces, and even those described as in “excellent” condition may display very minor imperfections from previous ownership. We make every effort to provide clear photos of any visible irregularity so you can make an informed decision before making your purchase.
Each product description page includes the item's vintage condition classification and a Condition Guide to help you understand the overall condition of the silverwork and stones. Please note:
- The guide applies only to the silver and stones.
- Belt straps, bolo cords, and “throw-in” watches are not covered by the guide, but their condition is described individually on their product pages.
- Tarnish is not factored into condition ratings, as patina naturally develops with age and does not affect the integrity of the piece.
2. The measurements are given as close approximations, and slight variations may occur.
3. Every photo represents the exact piece you’ll receive, shown in its actual color and condition. While the jewelry itself is never altered, backgrounds are edited to ensure a clean, consistent display.
4. Because screens display colors differently, the exact shade of a piece may vary slightly from one device to another. If you’re looking for a piece to match an item you already own, we suggest viewing the product's photos on multiple devices for the most accurate assessment of color and overtones.
5. At Silver Cactus Jewelry, we are committed to honoring cultural integrity and accurately representing Indigenous art in accordance with the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. We carefully describe each piece in good faith, with complete transparency regarding signed or unsigned status, available provenance, and expert opinion. Attributions to specific artists or tribes are based on expert evaluation but are not guaranteed. Buyers are encouraged to make their own evaluations before purchase.
6. All jewelry is sold as-is. Buyers are responsible for ensuring compatibility with personal sensitivities (e.g., metal allergies).
7. Silver Cactus Jewelry’s liability is limited to the purchase price of the item. No additional warranties are expressed or implied.
Our Approach to Provenance
Every vintage piece carries a story that begins with its maker. Some are clearly signed and dated; others show only a softened hallmark, a sterling/.925 stamp, the place of production or tribal indicator
—and some bear no markings at all.
Evaluation of Unsigned, Unclear, or Unknown Marks
Pre-loved vintage jewelry rarely includes formal documentation. When hallmarks are unclear or missing, we look to the piece itself for insight into provenance and authenticity. Our evaluation may include:
- Partial or unknown marks (used as reference points for further research into tribes, families, or regional styles)
- Historical context
- Materials (stone, metal, findings, patina)
- Construction (handwork, joins, settings, finishing)
- Available reference materials
- Stylistic details (motifs, proportions, technique clues)
Attribution & Provenance Disclosure
Each piece is described in good faith and with careful attention to accuracy. We provide full transparency regarding whether a piece is signed or unsigned, any known or available provenance, and our informed professional assessment at the time of listing.
Attributions to specific artists, tribes, or mines are based on stylistic analysis, materials, construction techniques, historical context, and available reference material. In cases where hallmarks are unclear, partial, or absent, even recognized experts may reasonably differ in their conclusions. For this reason, all attributions should be understood as informed opinions rather than absolute guarantees.
Native American jewelry is a living tradition, and the learning process never truly ends. Our understanding continues to evolve through ongoing research and the exchange of knowledge with fellow collectors, scholars, artisans, and informed clients. This ongoing dialogue helps preserve accuracy, context, and integrity—ensuring we remain a trusted source of information rather than presenting any single interpretation as final.
Collectors who value this shared approach to learning are invited to join the Collectors Circle, where we exchange newly uncovered information, historical insights, and evolving perspectives on materials, makers, and regional traditions. This collaborative environment allows knowledge to grow responsibly and ensures that both collectors and researchers benefit from continued discovery.
We encourage collectors and enthusiasts to conduct their own independent evaluation prior to purchase. For a detailed explanation of our methodology, limitations, and guarantees, please refer to our Terms of Service.
For general questions, you may contact us at info@silvercactusjewelry.com.
A Word About Our Insurance Tag
Silver Cactus Jewelry pieces are vintage and one of a kind—often irreplaceable. To honor their history and protect your investment, each item is carefully inspected and secured with an Insurance Tag, ensuring it arrives as represented.
🛡️ Why the Insurance Tag Matters
- It guarantees your piece has been inspected prior to shipment.
- Protects your purchase during transit and for 30 calendar days from the delivery date, so long as the tag remains attached and unaltered.
- Simplifies returns when the tag is intact and secured, even in the event of damage.
⚠️ Important: Removing the Insurance Tag terminates the insurance and voids the return policy.
This safeguard preserves the integrity of rare collectibles while reinforcing our commitment to excellence and a client experience that meets or exceeds expectations. For detailed information about our insurance policy, please view our Terms of Service.
Once you are satisfied with your purchase, or after the return period has concluded, you may remove the Insurance Tag. In the unlikely event that any minor adhesive residue remains, a moist pad and jeweler’s cloth are included for gentle cleaning and light polishing.
For questions about your order, please contact us at support@silvercactusjewelry.com.
For Return Authorizations (RAs) or questions about returns, please review our Return Policy and contact us at returns@silvercactusjewelry.com.
For general questions, you can reach us at info@silvercactusjewelry.com.
