Vintage Zuni jewelry suite

Item Overview

• Type: Matching Jewelry Suite – necklace, cuff bracelet, ring, and earrings
• Materials:
  • Sterling silver
  • Mother of pearl (main inlay panels)
  • Turquoise (center stone of each flower)
• Style: Traditional Zuni cluster inlay work featuring stylized four-petal flower motifs
• Markings: Hand-engraved on the back of the necklace:
  • Leroy & Margie Simplicio
  • Zuni
• Condition: Good – appears well-preserved with no major damage; some natural patina on silver
• Estimated Era: Likely 1970s–1990s, based on style and known working period of the artists

Artist Background: Leroy & Margie Simplicio (Zuni Pueblo, NM)

Leroy Simplicio, often working with his wife Margie, comes from a well-known Zuni silversmithing family. The Simplicio family is one of the most respected in Zuni jewelry arts, known for intricate inlay, bold cluster designs, and high-quality hand-wrought silver work. While not as widely commercialized as some Zuni jewelers, their work is highly regarded among Native American jewelry collectors.

Design Significance

This suite displays hallmark Zuni craftsmanship:

• Mother of pearl inlay – reflects natural light with beautiful iridescence
• Turquoise dot centers – symbolic of protection and tradition
• Linked medallion choker necklace – vintage design rarely seen in modern Zuni pieces

The matching set increases its value as it’s relatively rare to find complete suites intact.

Estimated Value (Retail & Collector Market)

Sale Channel

Estimated Value (USD)

Collector/Native Jewelry Dealer

$600 – $1,200

Online Retail (eBay/Etsy)

$400 – $800

Auction / Estate Sales

$350 – $600

Insurance Appraisal

~$1,200 (full replacement value for insured jewelry suite)

Note: The engraved signature adds authenticity but also suggests this might have been a custom-commissioned or family-signed piece, which is especially appealing to collectors.

Recommendation

• Professional Appraisal? Recommended if you ever intend to insure, sell, or donate — especially due to its connection to a named Zuni artist family.
• Storage Tips: Keep it in anti-tarnish cloth, avoid harsh polishing (preserve patina), and avoid prolonged exposure to water or perfumes.
• Historical Preservation: This is a beautiful representation of Zuni art and should be kept together as a suite if possible.