Congressional Jewels

R.M. Ghahate Zuni Cardinal bird 925 silver pin brooch/pendant with MOP & coral inlay

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This is a sterling pin pendant with coral and mother-of-pearl inlay depicting a cardinal bird and flowers, signed "R.M. Ghahate" on the back. It is not hallmarked for sterling, but it tests correctly as sterling silver. (I have had other similar pieces of Native American handcrafted jewelry which are sterling but also not hallmarked for metal content, so this is not unusual.) The diameter is 1 3/8". It weighs 11.4 grams. The bale opening is 4mm. There is some wear to the outlining detail in the bird, which shows as white on the red near the black lining, as well as some wear to the outer edges of the mother-of-pearl on the flowers, meaning that under a loupe, there is some brown edging on the mother-of-pearl. Also some surface wear throughout (small surface scratches) from age and use. The surface of the metal on the back is a little wavy (not completely flat and smooth), but I would say that is how it was made. It is, nonetheless, an exquisitely detailed and graceful artisan piece. Overall in used but good pre-owned condition, flaws as noted..

SOLD: no longer available