Heirloom Jewelry Auction: Museum-Quality Navajo, Zuni & Santo Domingo Heirlooms Closed (#19788225)

Rare Tony Aguilar Sr. Santo Domingo Sterling Silver & Turquoise Ring, Museum Quality Ring

This exceptional vintage Santo Domingo ring represents a rare work by Tony Aguilar Sr., one of the most celebrated artists from the Santo Domingo Pueblo (Kewa). Aguilar is best known for his traditional Native American jewelry with vibrant turquoise, yet it’s uncommon to find his work in sterling silver, particularly in ring form, making this piece a true collector’s item. 

The ring features a large, eye-catching turquoise stone, measuring 33.05 mm x 27.11 mm, beautifully set within a bezel. Surrounding the stone are exquisite silver beads, a hallmark of Aguilar’s detailed craftsmanship and attention to design. The double shank adds durability and balance, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and wearability.

Adding to its historical and collectible value, there is writing on the back indicating that this piece is “80 years old,” reinforcing its status as a museum-quality, vintage artifact. Aguilar’s pieces, especially rare sterling silver rings, are treasured for their authenticity and connection to the cultural heritage of the Santo Domingo Pueblo.

Specifications:

• Artist: Tony Aguilar Sr., Santo Domingo Pueblo
• Material: Sterling Silver (tested) and Kingman Turquoise
• Markings: Signed “TA” (Tony Aguilar Sr.)
• Stone Size: 33.05 mm x 27.11 mm
• Ring Size: 10.5
• Weight: 39.7 grams
• Condition: Good, polishing left to the buyer, stone secure in setting

This ring is a true testament to Aguilar’s legacy, embodying the cultural artistry and craftsmanship of the Santo Domingo Pueblo. It’s a remarkable find for any collector of Native American jewelry, particularly those who appreciate pieces with deep historical roots and cultural significance.

More About the Artist
Tony Aguilar Sr. (1919–2000) was a renowned silversmith from Santo Domingo Pueblo (now Kewa Pueblo) in New Mexico. He was celebrated for his traditional craftsmanship, blending classic Pueblo and Navajo techniques with his unique style. Aguilar specialized in high-quality jewelry featuring inlaid turquoise and silverwork, and he became known for his exceptional attention to detail and creative designs.

While Aguilar was known primarily for his use of turquoise and silver, his pieces often included large, intricate settings and were distinguished by their bold, dramatic style. He also incorporated traditional motifs, such as silver beads and twisted wire, giving his work a distinctive and sophisticated look that appealed to collectors and art enthusiasts. His work has been recognized and celebrated, being held in private collections and exhibited in various galleries across New Mexico​.

Though his legacy is primarily focused on pendants, bracelets, and earrings, pieces like large silver rings with significant turquoise stones are particularly rare and demonstrate his skill in making substantial, museum-quality works. Aguilar's pieces are often signed with his initials, “TA,” marking their authenticity and connection to his heritage.