Ray Tafoya is still producing work which has taken a distinctively contemporary direction, but this ca. 1970 set of ornate Navajo sterling and Royston turquoise dangle earrings are an outstanding example of his earlier efforts. Adhering to traditional Navajo design and construction techniques, the sterling work is ornate featuring varied chisel chasing and scroll work with raindrop accents. The Royston mine turquoise stones are beautifully set in hand cut flat bezel and are individual in size and shape—another indication of Tafoya’s early use of traditional design. The backing plates are exacting and feature Tafoya’s distinctive staggered “RT” hallmark prior to his incorporating a sterling stamp. They measure 1 1/16” long including the bail and are 5/8” wide. Full dangle length, including the wires is 1.75” and the set weighs 6 grams. Beautiful traditional Navajo design and superior construction by a noted Navajo silversmith.
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