Vintage Sterling Silver Southwestern Inlay Ring — Turquoise, Onyx & Spiny Oyster

Clean geometry. Hand-cut stone. Honest silver.

This vintage Southwestern ring is crafted in solid sterling silver and features a finely executed stone inlay composed of turquoise, black onyx, and spiny oyster shell. Each piece of stone was individually cut and fit by hand, forming a crisp geometric pattern that sits flush within the silver for a smooth, low-profile wear.

The ring is stamped “S.B. Sterling.” While the specific artist has not been conclusively documented, the mark is widely understood to represent an individual Southwestern artisan rather than a commercial brand. The style, materials, and lapidary technique are strongly consistent with Zuni or Zuni-influenced craftsmanship, particularly the precise multi-stone inlay work that became a hallmark of Zuni silversmiths in the mid-to-late 20th century.

Many skilled Native American artisans worked within family shops or trading-post systems and signed their work with initials rather than full names. As a result, numerous authentic and well-crafted pieces — like this one — survive without formal attribution while still clearly reflecting traditional methods and regional design language.

This is not tourist jewelry or enamel work. It is a thoughtfully made ring using real stone and traditional techniques, intended to be worn daily rather than displayed behind glass.

Details:
- Solid sterling silver
- Hand-cut stone inlay
- Turquoise, black onyx, and spiny oyster shell
- Maker’s mark: S.B. Sterling
- Ring size: 9.75
- Weight: approximately 0.2 ounces

Jack Gringo Says: Subtle, graphic, and grounded in Southwest tradition — a piece that rewards close inspection and everyday wear.