Award winning Navajo jeweler Philander Begay has created this exceptional bolo tie showcasing a masterfully sculpted horned toad, hand carved in tufa stone and cast in sterling silver using the traditional tufa casting process. Renowned for his ability to transform natural subjects into compelling sculptural jewelry, Begay brings remarkable life, character, and movement to this distinctive design.
The body of the horned toad is formed from an outstanding rare and highly collectible gem grade natural Pilot Mountain spiderweb turquoise displaying deep, rich blue coloration accented by vibrant reddish and golden brown spiderweb matrix. The exceptional stone is secured within a hand chiseled bezel that highlights both its natural beauty and intricate matrix patterns, creating a striking focal point within the composition.
Cast separately and carefully applied to the bolo face, the horned toad achieves a remarkable sense of depth and dimension. The figure is mounted upon a deeply oxidized tufa cast sterling silver bolo plate, whose darkened surface enhances the contrast and visual impact of the turquoise and precious metal details. Finely executed solid 18 Karat gold accents, including meticulously crafted eyes, star and planets in the night sky add warmth, refinement, and an elegant interplay between gold and silver.
The bolo is paired with a hand woven black leather lanyard featuring a flat back for comfortable wear and is completed with elegant tufa cast sterling silver long cylinder tips. These handcrafted elements reinforce the artistic integrity of the piece while reflecting Begay’s dedication to traditional techniques and meticulous craftsmanship.
Combining rare Pilot Mountain turquoise, traditional tufa casting, sterling silver, and 18 Karat gold, this bolo tie is a remarkable example of Philander Begay’s artistry. Its sculptural presence, exceptional materials, and extraordinary attention to detail make it a standout work of Native American wearable art and a highly collectible expression of contemporary Navajo craftsmanship.
Full Length of Bolo Cord Tips Included: 54 in. Bolo Size: 3-5/8 in. x 1-13/16 in. (at widest point) Stone Size: 1-5/16 in. x 11/16 in. Tip Length: 3 in.