Belt, A Vintage, Buckle, Inlay, Chief's Head, Ralph Quam Hallmark, Vintage, 717

BOLD COLOR AND STYLE

The late Ralph Quam is known for gorgeous inlay work, and this piece showcases his talent. The square sterling silver buckle features an inlay chief in profile and floral accents made from stones of turquoise, mother of pearl, penn shell, jet, and orange spiny oyster. Each of the bold complementary colors brings life into this piece effortlessly. It is finished with a vintage leather strap. This is one you will not want to miss out on.

Ralph Quam (1914-deceased; Zuni). Mosaic inlay; incised faces; Comanche figural heads. Ralph Quam shared some marks with his wife Fannie Quam.

Marks: R. Q (etched); R. QUAM; R & F; R & F QUAM

• artist: Raymond "Ralph" Quam (1938-1971)
• affiliation: Zuni
• materials: sterling silver, turquoise, orange spiny oyster, penn shell, mother of pearl, jet, vintage leather strap
• measurements: 3" x 2", strap is 34"
• weight: 171 grams
• nice vintage condition
• stones are secure in their settings
• abrasions and surface wear commensurate with age
• nice patina
• light wear from use
• style: Belt-717