Up for your consideration is this fine Native American handmade genuine turquoise sterling silver ring created by the legendary Zuni artists, Robert & Bernice Leekya. The face of the ring measures 1-1/8 long by 3/4 wide. The ring is set with two natural Sleeping Beauty turquoise nuggets and the sides of the ring have applied silver fans. The ring weighs 28.8 grams.
Brand new and in perfect condition. Certificate of Authenticity and gift box included with your purchase. Hallmarked by the artists, with their distinctive RLB hallmarks. Size 11-1/2 only.
Robert Leekya is the son of famous fetish carver Leekya Deyuse. When his children entered school, Leekya requested that they take his first name as their surname. All of his children (Alice, Sarah, Elizabeth, Robert and Roger) did so. Robert and Bernice are a very well sought after couple, with deep roots in the Native American Jewelry community. The Leekya's work is bought by collectors all over the world. Robert's father (Old Man Aque or Leekya Deyuse) is the world's most famous early Zuni Carver. Bernice's Father was Teddy Weahkee. The Leekya's are now elderly and they make only a small amount of high end jewelry.
The Leekya'a work is becoming increasing difficult to obtain since Robert's recent heart attack. In addition, due to the closing of the Sleeping Beauty turquoise mine, the prices on any new jewelry that they make, reflects the increase in the price of Sleeping Beauty turquoise.