Shell Carvings Appraisal

Collection of Carved Stone Fetishes (Turquoise Bears and Shell Fish)

This collection comprises four hand-carved animal fetishes: two bears and two fish. The two bear carvings are crafted from a vibrant, opaque, sky-blue turquoise, exhibiting natural matrix inclusions, which appear as dark brown or black veining and splotches throughout the stones. These inclusions are particularly prominent on the back, sides, and heads of the bears. The bears are depicted in a walking or standing posture, with simplified, rounded forms characteristic of traditional Southwestern fetish carvings. Each bear measures approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in length and possesses a smooth, polished finish that highlights the natural beauty of the turquoise. Their mouths are slightly agape, suggesting a breathing or roaring pose, and their eyes are rudimentary indentations or left undetailed. The two fish carvings are made from a lighter-colored material, likely shell, possibly mother-of-pearl or similar. One fish shows a light beige hue with subtle, iridescent markings, while the other features a warmer, light peach or salmon color with distinct striped patterns. Both fish are carved in a side profile, with fins and tails clearly delineated, albeit in a stylized manner. They are smaller than the bears, each measuring roughly 1.5 to 2 inches in length. There are no readily visible maker's marks, signatures, or stamps on any of the pieces from the provided image. The overall style suggests a Native American or Southwestern folk art origin, likely from the mid to late 20th century. The condition appears to be good, with no obvious chips or cracks, only the natural variations and matrix of the stones.