A large oval turquoise sterling silver hand made ring. The ring features a stunning, hand selected and cut, piece of turquoise with amazing matrices through it. The design of the shank is that of the Navajo Native American tribe.
The open work split shank on this ring is quite substantial, made to support and surround this vibrant large piece of turquoise. Each side of the stone, on the shank, there are engraved lines and a matte sand cast finish. The overall finish is an organic, almost Samorodok style finishing. Fine work across the shank in general.
This attention to detail is also followed around the large overall turquoise stone. There is an unusual, saw edge, hand cut edge to the rubbed setting edge, but this sits on top of again an organic silver finished ledge.All of these details, aside from adding more beauty to the overall look, are a time consuming labour of love added by Mr. Bingham in his pursuit to create a highly attractive overall and unique designs.
The type of turquoise selected as the center stone in this ring is an old stock piece of turquoise that is believed to originate from the Tyrone mine. The Tyrone mining district, the second largest porphyry copper deposit in New Mexico, is located 10 miles southwest of Silver City in the Burro Mountains of southwestern New Mexico. Native Americans initially mined turquoise from the area around 600 AD (McLemore, 2008). Underground mining was established in the early 1860s and the current mode of mining, open-pit stripping, began in 1968. The mine became part of Freeport-McMoRan in 2007. It has produced some of the most magnificent examples of turquoise mined over the years. This being a superb example in both size and form.
Like most high quality pieces this ring is signed on the inside of the shank; "JB" for Joshua Bingham. From their home studio in the Galisteo Basin, Joshua works side by side with his wife Rachel. While Joshua dedicates himself to the meticulous fabrication of his one-of -a - kind pieces Born and raised in New Mexico, Joshua is a third generation craftsman and a self taught metalsmith. Heavily influenced by his surroundings, Joshua's designs are rich with New Mexico's ranch and western heritage. Attention to detail and unique style are cornerstones of his individualism, creativity and respect for all the deep heritages.
An accomplished metalsmith, Joshua is able to be bold, subtle and edgy. His process from start to finish is one of extreme focus and passion. Quality craftsmanship comes from many hours searching for the very best American high grade stones, and using sterling silver, and fine gold. Working from the homestead Joshua is able to draw great inspiration and drive, to be true to his craft and heart.
This is perhaps one of the finest examples of a single, large, stone ring we have had. Not to mention heavy and substantial! The ring is a size 12. This ring cannot really be sized due to the intricate nature of the handmade tapering band having the sand cast finish and wavy design.
