A striking and highly wearable example of classic Southwestern silverwork, this concho belt is hallmarked IHMJ (Indian Hand Made Jewelry).
The IHMJ hallmark was used on jewelry produced and distributed through Southwestern trading-post channels during the mid-to-late 20th century. Rather than identifying a single artist, the mark generally indicates handcrafted Native American-made jewelry created for the tourist and collector market. Pieces bearing this hallmark are often characterized by traditional hand-stamped silverwork, hand-set stones, and classic Southwestern designs.
The piece features individually hand-fabricated oval conchos linked by silver connectors, each centered with larger vivid blue turquoise cabochons.
The workmanship reflects the mid-to-late 20th century trading-post era, when handcrafted Native American jewelry was produced for both local wear and the growing Southwestern collector market. Each concho displays hand-stamped decoration, carefully formed bezels, and traditional silversmithing techniques that create depth, texture, and visual movement throughout the piece.
The stones exhibit the saturated sky-blue coloration with minimal matrix, slight tonal variation, and organic appearance commonly associated with natural turquoise.
Details
- Material: Sterling and turquoise
- Hallmark: IHMJ (Indian Hand Made Jewelry)
- Length: 40 inches
- Weight: 155.2 grams
May also be worn as double loop necklace
