Zuni jeweler, Leander Othole, inlaid gold lip Mother of Pearl, jet, natural Sleeping Beauty turquoise, and natural red coral into a butterfly shape in the center of this cuff bracelet. Even the narrow black lines are cut and inlaid jet! The golden sheen didn't show up well in the photos, but it does shimmer gold. The sterling silver quadruple shanks end in a silver cap, making it easy to put on and take off. Leander inscribed his name on the inside. More about Zuni inlay below.
Size: 5.5" Long with 1.25" Opening
This type of Zuni inlay is made by sawing out two pieces of silver into the desired shape. Thin pieces of sterling silver are soldered onto the base to create frames for the stones to be laid in. The stones are then cut, shaped, and placed into the areas that have been framed like a puzzle to create the design. The piece is then sanded and polished. This type of jewelry making is difficult and involved, which is why we do not see too many jewelers making it anymore.