Description

This vintage Bell Trading Post ring has the unmistakable character of mid-century Southwestern jewelry, with a softly triangular blue turquoise set at the center of a beautifully detailed sterling silver face. Twisted wire follows the stone's outline, while polished silver drops accent the upper and lower edges and give the design crisp definition. The split shank keeps the silverwork open around the face and lets the turquoise remain the clear focal point.

Bell Trading Post was an Albuquerque, New Mexico, Southwestern jewelry manufacturer operated by Jack and Mildred Michelson. Its arrow-post-and-bell trademark entered use in 1961, and Bell became part of Sunbell in 1969.

Marked with Bell Trading Post's arrow-post-and-bell hallmark and STERLING inside the shank.

Measurements & Specifications

• Weight: 4.6 grams
• Material: Sterling Silver 925, Turquoise
• Main Stone: Turquoise
• Stone Color: Blue
• Stone Shape: Rounded Triangle
• Number of Gemstones: 1
• Setting Type: Smooth Bezel
• Stone Measurements: 0.42 in L x 0.41 in W (10.7 mm x 10.4 mm)
• Ring Face Measurements: 0.64 in L x 0.59 in W (16.3 mm x 15.0 mm)
• Shank Style: Split Shank
• Ring Size: 8
• Design: Turquoise with Twisted Wire and Silver Drops
• Technique: Bezel Setting, Twisted Wire, Applied Silver Drops
• Maker: Bell Trading Post
• Signed/Unsigned: Signed
• Hallmarked: Yes (Bell Trading Post hallmark, STERLING)
• Country of Origin: United States
• Era: Mid-Century
• Decade: 1960s
• Style: Southwestern

The Bell hallmark and classic 1960s silverwork make this an appealing example of mid-century Southwestern turquoise jewelry.