Weekly Online Auctions in Sunny Las Cruces, New Mexico 
× Bidding has ended on this item.

Important Heirloom Jewelry Event Closed (#27670364)

Back To Catalog

Terms & Conditions

This Auction Uses Proxy Bidding.
Lot # JD168

Darlene Begay Navajo Sterling Coral Butterfly Ring — Signed, Sz 7 View Watchlist >

Ended
Payment Options

Seller Accepts Credit Cards

Payment and pickup instructions will be available on your invoice (under "My Account") at the conclusion of this auction.

Shipping Options

Pickup
$0.00

Signature Confirmed Shipping
$12.00 ($3.00 as additional item)


Lot # JD168
System ID # 27745478

Start Date
End Date

6 Watching

Bid/Purchase History >

Description

Darlene Begay Navajo Sterling Coral Butterfly Ring — Signed, Sz 7

A striking vintage Navajo butterfly ring by Darlene Begay, a respected Navajo silversmith working in the classic cluster tradition. The butterfly form spans 2-3/8 inches across the hand, its four wings each framed in hand-twisted rope border and filled with natural branch coral stones set in individual serrated-edge bezels. Silver raindrop beads are nestled between the stones throughout, adding depth and texture to every section of the composition. A stamped starburst medallion anchors the center, with twisted silver wire rising to form the antennae — a structural and decorative choice that shows real craft.

The wide stamped shank carries botanical motifs that carry the decorative vocabulary down to the band. Deep oxidation in the recessed silverwork provides natural contrast, bringing out the warm red-orange of the coral. The piece is signed "DB" on the reverse alongside the Sterling stamp.

Natural branch coral of this quality — vivid, untreated, with genuine surface character — is increasingly difficult to source, adding intrinsic value beyond the silverwork itself.

CONDITION Good overall. All stones are secure in their settings. The silver carries deep patina in the recesses consistent with age and wear — characteristic of vintage sterling. No repairs observed. Polishing left to buyer's preference.

SPECIFICATIONS

   
Artist Darlene Begay (Navajo)
Hallmark DB / Sterling
Metal Sterling silver
Stones Natural branch coral, bezel set
Ring size 7
Face 1.32" × 2.36"
Rise 0.25"
Shank width 6.5 mm
Weight 19.4 grams

Our Commitment to You:
Customer Guarantee

At Mesilla Valley Estate Sales, we take pride in the authenticity and quality of each item we offer. Here's our commitment to you:

  1. Authenticity Assurance: We guarantee this item to be authentic, handpicked from pre-owned estate collections.
  2. Accurate Description: We guarantee that the type of metal, weight, and maker of each item are described accurately on our website. We ensure thorough verification of these specifics before listing.
  3. Review at Pickup: You will have the opportunity to review your item during the designated pickup time. We encourage you to inspect your purchase to confirm that it matches the description provided. Please note, once you leave the property with the item, it is considered yours.

Please Note:

  • Diamond and gemstone weights, colors, and clarity grades are approximate and determined while mounted.
  • Treatment of colored stones, pearls, and other gemstones to enhance their appearance is common; these treatments may or may not be noted.

In the rare event of a typographical error in our listings, including gem descriptions and pricing, we reserve the right to correct such errors. If an item is sold based on incorrect information, we will provide a full refund to the buyer and adjust the product information accordingly.

Our guarantee aligns with our pickup policy, ensuring you have the opportunity to review your purchase at the designated pickup time and location. It's important to understand that once the item is picked up, the sale is final, and the item cannot be returned.

We believe that the jewelry you purchase will become cherished heirlooms, admired for generations.
Your satisfaction and trust in our offerings are paramount to us.

Nationwide Shipping Available
Signature-Confirmed Delivery $12 (+ $3 per additional item)