These large, sterling silver earrings are made with gorgeous, bright blue Campitos Turquoise clusters that seem to sparkle against the dark background of oxidized silver. Handmade by Diné silversmith Jimmy Lee.
CLUSTER Used for many generations this style of arranging stones is common within Native jewelry. Clusters are typically arranged in a sunburst or "flower" pattern with smaller, evenly spaced stones encircling a larger center stone. However, clusters can also be random, showcasing the stones' natural shapes.
OXIDIZED STERLING SILVER is sterling that has been darkened using a surface treatment. This process helps to give the metal a "tarnished" look and is often used to provide contrast within jewelry pieces.
CAMPITOS TURQUOISE is derived from the Spanish word "campo" meaning "field" or "countryside". Mined in Mexico from the Pino Chueco and Cananea mines in Sonora, Campitos is a favorite for jewelry artisans. Campitos is unique in several ways. It grows in clay as free-form nuggets, rather than in veins typical of many North American turquoises. Its color resembles Sleeping Beauty Turquoise's color and ranges from light to medium blue with no matrix. Occasionally you may find pyrite inclusions, which give it a little bit of sparkle.
Jimmy Lee was born in Gallup, NM, the “capital of Navajo Land.” He spent most of his childhood years in Arizona, and now calls the reservation community of Yatahey, New Mexico his home.
While in junior high school, he began to take classes in silversmithing, showing a natural affinity for this traditional art of his Navajo people. Now, at the age of 38, Jimmy has spent half his life as a professional jewelry designer.
His finely crafted, dramatic designs, usually feature high grade turquoise- often decorated with sprays of silver leaves, wirework, and raindrop clusters.
He is also sought out for his unusual and jewelry featuring bear claws, set like stones in his most unique pieces.
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