E Harvey Navajo silver and coral by-pass Ring

I am not very familiar with the world of Native American silver jewelry yet some pieces end up in my hands and with them comes the opportunity to learn something new. This vintage Navajo sterling silver and coral by pass ring with meticulous wire-work, oxidation and applique leaf-work was mistakenly presented as Mexican but a quick search revealed that it was made by Emerson Harvey of Twin Lakes in the Gallup, NM area. In fact, I was so incredibly lucky in my search as to find a thread in which the silversmith’s daughter actually identified it as one of his father’s early creations. Now, how often does that happen?

Size / Weight: sz 6 US (resizable but I would advise you ask for the help of a professional); face is 1” N-S by 1/2” E-W; 5.8 grams

Hallmarks / Date: maker’s signature “E HARVEY” as shown; not hallmarked for metal quality yet tested and guaranteed to be sterling silver; 1960s-70s, I would suggest (?)

Condition: excellent vintage, very carefully made and perfectly finished, with a splash of vibrant color from the stones that counter-balances the dark oxidation, great patina and no damage or repairs noted

Inv# 15889