Old Zuni Butterfly Turquoise Bolo Tie [SG-295]

This Zuni butterfly bolo tie features a finely defined sterling silver slide with scalloped edges and repoussé-style body, centered with five Morenci turquoise nuggets set in serrated bezels. The butterfly shape is iconic in Zuni jewelry. This piece measures approx. 2 ¾″ x 1 5/8″.

The Morenci mine in southeastern Arizona produced some of the most famous turquoise of the 20th century, known for its brilliant blues and pyrite inclusions.

The bolo includes original braided leather cord and long, slender silver tips, both showing consistent age and wear. No maker’s mark is visible, but the piece is in keeping with mid-century Zuni silversmithing techniques, especially the shadow-box setting style and dense silverwork. Bennett C-31 clasp dates the piece to the late 1950s–early 1960s. Silver maintains a naturally aged patina throughout.