Belts and Buckles

The better known examples of belts and buckles can be found amongst the Zuni and the Navajo. The Zuni employ a variety of techniques but are best known for a mosaic inlay technique using turquoise, coral, jet and mother of pearl stones. The Zuni are also known for their Ranger sets, made fashionable through the commissioning of Fred Harvey during the late 18th century. The Navajo are known for their sandcast work and the ever popular concho belts. Concho belts consist of large dome shaped hand stamped silver discs featuring cold chisel, stamp and file work. These belts are held together by a thin leather strip which loops through and joins each disc. Sandcast buckles are common on concho belts from all periods.