Materials: Ruidoso Turquoise/Enhancement and Spiny Oyster (per Ruidoso Trading)
Artist Bio: Calvin Nelson (Navajo) - Calvin Nelson is a gifted silversmith and jeweler who resides in Ruidoso, NM. He learned his craft from his mother while growing up in Magdalena NM. He is of Navajo and Apache heritage and this comes through in the work that he produces.
Evaluation Notes:
Nelson cuts all the stones by hand, his twist wire is handmade, and every component of this set is handmade. The Enchantment mine (also known as the Lost Mine of Enchantment) is a turquoise mine in Lincoln County, New Mexico, known for producing high-quality turquoise that can be deep green with a tan or golden matrix, or a rich blue color. This mine, rediscovered by a gold prospector in 1996, is considered one of the first significant new turquoise discoveries in New Mexico since the 1500s.
Fair Market Value: $2,500 (entire set)
Appraisal by Jessica Goodman of San Francisco Trading Post
Calvin Nelson Turquoise & Spiny Oyster Prickly Pear Blossom Necklace, Ring and Post Earring Set
