Gold Bracele

Charles Loloma

1985 · Mediterranean coral, Lone Mountain turquoise, sugilite, lapis, 14k gold · The American Wing

This stunning piece represents a work of exemplary craftsmanship of the wax casting method which creates a smooth surface that could then be polished to a high sheen. The stones set in the goldwork include the red Mediterranean coral, Lone Mountain turquoise, dark purple sugilite, and lapis lazuli with pyrite inclusions. A clear shiny material visible between many of the joins, shows that an adhesive may have been used to set the stones. This bracelet was made at the pinnacle of Charles Loloma’s career in 1985. An example of his incorporation of traditional Native materials and new materials the work demonstrates the artists love of color, new materials, height, and shape. A year after it was made, in 1986, Loloma suffered physical injuries. Although he continued to design jewelry pieces, he worked with support from collaborators and assistants. Charles Loloma (Hopi, b. 1921- d. 1991) was one of the most innovative and influential artists of the twentieth century. Inspired by Native American and non-Native aesthetic practices alike, Loloma broke new ground with his utilization of precious gemstones, wood, and other natural materials in his jewelry making. His striking design work and bold settings, as well as his exploration of height as an aesthetic element for inlay styles, was like no other artist.

Artist

Charles Loloma

Date

1985

Medium

Mediterranean coral, Lone Mountain turquoise, sugilite, lapis, 14k gold

Culture

Hopi

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Gift of Leslie M. Beebe and Bruce Nussbaum, 2022