Creation Date

1931 – 1955

Description

"This 2 1/4 inch long silver brooch is in the shape of an oval with and oval moonstone set in the center. Rays etched in the silver radiate from this stone to the edge of the pin. The mounting was made for this stone by Ambrose Roanhorse, a Navajo silversmith."

This pin has small hooks on the back for hanging more pieces of jewelry if so desired.

Ambrose Roanhorse taught silversmithing at the Santa Fe Indian School in the 1930s. He was one of the first native artists to depart from traditional designs. Instead, his work is noted for bold lines, simple forms, and minimal stamping. When he used stones, they were generally single high quality stones. This piece is an excellent examples of his bold, simple forms and use of high quality stones.