Tufa Cast Sterling Silver, Kingman Turquoise and Spiny Oyster Shell Bolo with Handmade Tips
Tufa Cast Sterling Silver, Kingman Turquoise and Spiny Oyster Shell Bolo with Handmade Tips
Artist: Ray “Duck” Garcia (Red Earth Honored One 2025)
This bolo tie by Ray “Duck” Garcia of San Felipe Pueblo is created using a tufa cast technique, which produces a textured surface with natural depth and character. The centerpiece features two bezel-set stones that form a balanced vertical layout. At the top is an oval spiny oyster shell cabochon with warm orange tones. Below it sits a round Kingman turquoise cabochon with rich blue color that contrasts well with the shell.
The tufa cast plate carries Garcia’s hand-worked texture along with stamped silver elements at the top and bottom, giving the piece structure and definition. The centerpiece measures about 2 3/4 inches tall and 1 3/4 inches wide.
The bolo is set on a 21.5 inch braided black leather cord with polished handmade silver tips that add weight and a refined finish. Garcia’s work combines traditional Pueblo silversmithing with clean, contemporary stone presentation.
Details
Artist: Ray “Duck” Garcia
Tribe: San Felipe Pueblo
Total cord length: 21.5 in
Centerpiece: approx. 2 3/4 in tall, 1 3/4 in wide
Stones: Spiny oyster shell (top), Kingman turquoise (bottom)
Materials: Sterling silver and braided leather
Condition: New
