The concha belt is among the most striking products of the Navajo silversmith’s art. Conchas (shells) as they were known in New Mexico, were large, oval or circular, silver brooch-like ornaments.
Some of the Mexican bridles had silver conchas on the head stalls. Old Mexican bridle conchas used floral and geometric patterns. Hence the decorative elements that influenced the Navajo silversmiths.
Good conchas represent much patient work with small, usually repeated, designs, struck one element at the time with a home-made die and a hand hammer. Originally these belts did not have a buckle, but were fastened with leather thongs. Most old belts today are equipped with buckles. Among the earliest buckles made by Navajo smiths are simple copies of harness buckles.
In the early years (1870′s-80′s), Navajo silver work was an art practiced by very few smiths. Their work was highly valued and sought after by fellow Navajos as well as Hopis and Zunis. Objects of silver began to have a great effect upon the lives of those desert peoples. Silver jewelry became a symbol of a man’s wealth and standing in the community. A “smith” was a respected man and enjoyed prestige given to few others.
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Filed under: Navajo Jewelry Tagged: | collectible jewelry, concha belt, concho belt, native american, native american jewelry, navajo jewelry, old turquoise, silver jewelry, southwest, southwest jewelry, turquoise, turquoise jewelry
