Vintage Southwestern Turquoise Chip Inlay Ring Long Navette Swirl Silver Tone ~6

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Good day, and thank you for considering this quietly distinctive vintage ring from our family’s personal estate holdings. It is a fine example of the Southwestern chip-inlay tradition that flourished in the mid-twentieth century, rendered here in an elongated navette silhouette that feels both architectural and organic.

The ring presents a long, pointed-oval face approximately one-and-a-half inches in vertical length, as confirmed by the ruler photographs included with this listing. The form is unmistakably navette in proportion—gracefully tapered at both ends—yet the interior design elevates it beyond the ordinary. A sinuous, scrolling metal element rises from the lower portion, curves upward in a fluid “S” or wave motif, and terminates in a gentle spiral near the top. This metal scroll sits proud against a rich black ground, creating a striking contrast that draws the eye along the entire length of the face.

The black inlay itself is smooth and slightly glossy, providing a deep, velvety backdrop. Adjacent to and within the scroll, a generous panel of crushed turquoise chip inlay has been set. The turquoise appears as small, irregular fragments—true chip or mosaic work—rather than a single polished cabochon. The granular texture of the individual pieces catches the light differently across the surface, giving the blue-green color a lively, almost mosaic quality. The chips are set in what appears to be a resin or similar binder, a common technique in period Southwestern and Mexican jewelry that allows for intricate patterns without the weight or cost of larger stones.

On either side of the central motif, the shoulders open into elegant cut-outs or voids. These negative spaces lighten the visual mass of the mounting and give the ring a sense of airy construction, a detail often seen in more artistic mid-century designs. The band itself is a simple, rounded shank that flows naturally from the shoulders, comfortable for extended wear yet substantial enough to support the elongated face.

No hallmark, stamp, or maker’s mark is visible in any of the high-resolution photographs provided. The metal presents as a silver-tone or white metal with a soft, even patina developed through age and gentle use. While the overall color and finish are consistent with period Mexican or Southwestern silver work, the absence of any “925,” “Mexico,” “Taxco,” or maker’s eagle mark means we describe it honestly as unmarked silver-tone metal. It may be sterling silver that was never stamped, nickel silver, or another silver-colored alloy common in the era; we make no claim beyond what the images clearly show.

The ring sits beautifully on the hand in the supplied photographs, its long face extending gracefully along the finger. From the ruler images it corresponds most closely to a US size 6.5, though we always recommend confirmation by a jeweler for precise fit. The proportions are balanced—neither overly delicate nor heavy—making it suitable for everyday wear or as a statement accent.

Condition is that of a cherished vintage piece. The inlay remains fully intact with no missing chips or significant lifting. The turquoise retains its vibrant blue-green hue, and the black ground shows only minor surface wear consistent with age. The metal exhibits the expected gentle scratches, micro-abrasions, and a pleasing patina, particularly in the recessed areas around the scroll and shoulders. There are no breaks, repairs, or structural issues. A light professional cleaning would brighten the silver-tone metal if desired, yet many collectors prefer the honest character that only time imparts.

This style of crushed-chip turquoise inlay within a scrolling or abstract metal motif was especially popular in the 1960s and 1970s among artisans working in the Taxco and broader Southwestern traditions. The long navette face with internal swirl adds a modernist sensibility to the classic chip-inlay technique, resulting in a piece that feels both rooted in regional jewelry history and quietly contemporary. Because it is unmarked, it offers an accessible entry point for collectors who appreciate the aesthetic without requiring the premium commanded by signed Taxco or Navajo examples.

Offered here in its original as-found estate condition, this ring carries the quiet authority of a well-made period object. It would complement both a serious collection of mid-century Southwestern jewelry and a modern wardrobe that favors artistic, one-of-a-kind accents. The flowing lines of the scroll, the lively texture of the crushed turquoise, and the elegant negative space of the shoulders combine to create a wearable work of miniature sculpture.

We have photographed the piece from multiple angles—top, side, profile, and worn—so that you may judge every detail for yourself. The ruler views are included specifically to assist with sizing decisions. Should you have any further questions about fit, condition, or styling suggestions, I am always happy to respond promptly with additional images or information.

It is a pleasure to share this refined example of vintage chip-inlay artistry from our family’s collection.

 _gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))

Condition: Pre-owned - Good

Item specifics

Offered by Gosla Antiques & Collectibles, purveyors of antiquities, curiosities and collectible wares. Dispatched from Pennsylvania, United States, with tracking.