Mark Chee (1914-1981) - Navajo Blue Gem Turquoise and Silver Ring c. 1950s, Size 10.5 (J15057)

16.6g, size 10.5, 1.5" x 1" face. Artist hallmark on verso. Acquired from a private collection in California. Owner purchased at Shiprock Gallery in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Mark Chee was a Navajo silversmith who was active from 1934-1942, and 1946-1970s he was in the Air Force from 1942-1946. Mark specialized in old style designs with heavy gage silver, set stones, and traditional stamp work. He won numerous awards for his work including first prize in the 1946 Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial in Gallup, NM.