This breathtaking vintage Zuni channel inlay bracelet by artist K.C. of Zuni, New Mexico is a narrative masterwork — five oval jet panels, each set in a hand-twisted rope bezel with silver bead accents, tell a story of the natural world through the ancient art of Zuni inlay. Every panel features a different hand-cut spirit figure rendered in vivid natural stones against a deep black jet ground:

• Cardinal on Branch — coral bird with turquoise and mother of pearl leaf branch
• Kokopelli Dancer — coral and turquoise figure in mid-dance
• Butterfly— turquoise and mother of pearl wings with coral accent
• Blue Jay —mother of pearl fish with turquoise and cream shell leaf surround
• Hummingbird — turquoise and mother of pearl bird in flight

Each figure is cut and fitted with extraordinary precision, the stones polished flush to the jet surface in the classic Zuni channel inlay tradition. The twisted rope bezels and silver bead terminals frame each panel with elegant detail, connected by articulated bar links that allow the bracelet to drape naturally around the wrist.

At 26.2 grams of sterling silver and 7 inches in length, this bracelet wears with commanding presence. The artist's hallmark K.C. Zuni NM is engraved on the reverse — a proud mark of Zuni origin and craftsmanship.

Artisan Heritage

Signed K.C., Zuni, NM (engraved on reverse), this bracelet is the work of a skilled Zuni channel inlay artist working in one of the most demanding lapidary traditions in Native American jewelry. Zuni channel inlay requires each stone to be individually cut, shaped, and fitted flush into a metal channel — a process of extraordinary patience and precision that has been practiced at Zuni Pueblo for generations.

Specifications

Artist: K.C. (hallmark: K.C. Zuni NM, engraved on reverse)
Tribe: Zuni
Style: Five-Panel Spirit Figure Channel Inlay Link Bracelet
Materials: Sterling silver, jet (black onyx), turquoise, coral, mother of pearl
Panels: Cardinal, Kokopelli, Blue Jay, Butterfly, Hummingbird
Length: 7"
Weight: 26.2 grams
Hallmark: K.C. Zuni NM (engraved)
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with rich patina consistent with age

This is a one-of-a-kind estate piece. Authenticity, artistry, and heritage are at the heart of every item we offer at Black Arrow Gallery.