Native American Turquoise Belt Buckle Coral Sterling Silver Bear Claw Belt Buckle.

The artist did not hold back on this one. This hand made Bear Claw Belt Buckle is an impressive example of traditional artistry! It features gorgeous nuggets of genuine Sleeping Beauty Turquoise and Coral set with a genuine Bear Claw. The intricate Silver work showcases the stunning bear claw with style and the Turquoise and Coral complete the design with vivid color. This belt buckle was cut by hand from sheets of Sterling Silver and all of the stamped designs, silver coils, twist wire, and Sterling drops are hand made. It is about 3-1/2" by 2-3/4" with a 1-1/2" wide keeper on the back. Stamped Sterling and signed by the Navajo artist M. Thomas Jr. Gemstones may vary slightly. The last picture demonstrates the variation from piece to piece.

The bear is a potent source of strength for many Native Americans. Admired for their strength, independence, and self reliance, Bear's spirits were often invoked before entering battle. Warriors sometimes painted their faces with marks resembling bear claw scratches and carried double-edged knives with handles carved from the jawbones of bears as good luck charms. It was believed that bear power could also cure illness. Shamans or medicine men from many different groups frequently dressed as bears when working to heal the sick. Just as honoring the bear spirit could bring blessings to people, provoking the spirit might bring them harm. For that reason, some tribes, most notably the Apache, forbade their hunters to kill a bear, or even to touch the carcass of one found dead in the woods.

The Sleeping Beauty mine is located near Globe, Arizona. Its turquoise is noted for its solid, light blue color with no matrix. Sleeping Beauty turquoise is the favorite of the Zuni Pueblo silversmiths for use in petite point, needlepoint, and inlay jewelry because of its natural hardness and consistent color. This mine is one of the largest in North America and is still operating. We understand the true value and nature of hand crafted Indian art. And, we recognize it’s important to know that the artist is truly a member of a Native American tribe. So, to ensure you that this is the real deal, a Certificate of Authenticity has been included with this item.

CERTIFIED AUTHENTIC