Rare Vintage Hopi Native American Sterling Silver Bear Paw Belt Buckle for Sale

Rare Vintage Hopi Native American Sterling Silver Bear Paw Belt Buckle For Sale

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Rare Vintage Hopi Native American Sterling Silver Bear Paw Belt Buckle:
$499.00

This magnificent and traditional belt buckle represents the finest of Hopi craftsmanship. This piece of Native American jewelry is Hopi overlay hand crafted out of genuine sterling silver. Overlay is a process that utilizes at least two layers of sterling silver. One layer forms the foundation, while the second is used to design the individual detailed overlay. In Native American beliefs, the bear symbolizes physical strength, leadership, and is known as the "first helper." The bear paw is a symbol that represents inner strength.

My grandfather was a silversmith from Wyoming, and he bought this handmade belt buckle sometime in the late 1990's or early 2000's directly from the Hopi silversmith and has been part of his private collection ever since. Even though this item is vintage, it has never been worn. The piece is most likely an early piece made by Hopi artist George Phillips.

Weight: 27 grams

Length: 2 3/8"

Width: 1 1/2"

Will fit a belt up to: 1 1/4"

Hallmark: Arrow facing to the right