Onyx Leaf Bracelet Appraisal

Southwestern Native American Style Sterling Silver and Onyx Leaf Cuff Bracelet

This item is a handcrafted cuff-style bracelet, likely of Navajo or Southwestern origin, featuring a combination of sterling silver and polished black onyx. The piece is characterized by an ornate decorative leaf or feather motif that arches over the main setting. The construction utilizes a heavy-gauge silver, prominently displaying traditional metalwork techniques such as stamping and appliqué. The central gemstone is a large, cabochon-cut black onyx, securely held within a sawtooth bezel. Adjacent to the stone, a hallmark is visible, consisting of what appears to be a stylized 'W' or bird talon mark, indicating a specific maker's signature, though it is slightly worn. The silver exhibits a natural patina with some surface scratches and tarnish consistent with mid-to-late 20th-century age. The scalloped edges of the silver leaf demonstrate high-quality craftsmanship, with deliberate, rhythmic indentations. Overall, the piece shows minor signs of use including light scuffing on the polished onyx surface and typical oxidization in the recessed areas of the silver design, which adds depth and character to the aesthetic.