Lot Number:
63
Item Location:
Broomfield
Preview Date/Time:
Online photos
Pickup Date/Time:
June 29-30 10:00am-4:00pm
Start Date/Time:
06/21/26, 7:00 AM
End Date/Time:
06/28/26, 8:03:00 PM
Description:
This striking brooch features a large oval malachite cabochon set in a hand-stamped silver frame consistent with Southwestern Native American or Mexican silver smithing traditions of the 1950s-1960s. The malachite stone is exceptional in quality, displaying vivid banded patterns of deep emerald and bright green with characteristic swirling concentric formations and natural matrix inclusions, measuring approximately 1.25 inches by 0.875 inches. The silver setting showcases intricate hand-stamped decorative work including a twisted rope bezel surrounding the stone, radiating feather or leaf motifs at the cardinal points, and a scalloped outer border — all hallmarks of skilled hand-fabrication rather than cast production. The overall brooch measures approximately 2.25 inches wide by 1.5 inches tall, giving it a bold, wearable presence. This style of silverwork — combining hand-stamped geometric and naturalistic motifs with a prominent gemstone cabochon — is closely associated with Navajo and Southwestern silversmiths working in the mid-20th century, as well as Taxco, Mexico artisans of the same era who produced similar work for the tourist and collector markets. No maker's hallmark or silver purity stamp is visible in the available photographs, which is not uncommon for hand-made pieces of this period; metal testing is recommended to confirm silver content. Condition is rated Good to Very Good: the malachite stone displays several natural matrix inclusions and minor surface pitting inherent to the stone itself, along with light surface scratches consistent with age and wear; the silver frame shows expected oxidation and darkening in the recessed stamped areas which enhances the decorative detail, with no missing elements or structural damage observed; the pin mechanism on the reverse is not visible in photos and should be confirmed functional prior to bidding.