Vintage Navajo Bear Claw and Kingman Turquoise Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet

This is a substantial and rare Navajo sterling silver cuff bracelet, attributed to the renowned silversmith Dean Brown. Crafted between the 1940s and 1960s, the piece features a weight exceeding 3 ounces, indicating heavy-gauge construction typical of high-quality mid-century Southwest jewelry. The ornate design centers on a natural bear claw, securely set in a silver cap and accented by three stabilized Kingman turquoise stones exhibiting a bright blue-green hue with characteristic matrix. The silverwork is highly detailed, featuring hand-carved leaf motifs, silver raindrops (beads), and twisted wire detailing. The construction shows a triple-wire shank or heavy plate design common for supporting large organic elements. The interior shows a smooth, polished finish with a deep, natural patina emphasizing the recesses of the floral applique. There are no immediate visible signs of repair, though the silver shows the gentle softening of edges consistent with decades of careful wear. Given the provenance and rarity (noted as one of only three made), this museum-quality piece represents a peak of Navajo sculptural jewelry art. The craftsmanship is exceptional, demonstrating mastery in applique and stone setting.