Scarce Chief Shatka Bear-Step Turquoise and Sterling Ring

This scarce and spectacular turquoise and sterling ring was created by Chief Shatka Bear-Step (1898-1980; otherwise known as Richard Spencer) who was both an accomplished and well known silversmith. This ring has generously sized naturally asymmetrical turquoise with stunning black and tan matrix. It is bezel set and framed with a brutalist like amorphic design.  It is a wonderful opportunity to view this piece as his jewelry seldom becomes available on the secondary market.

Not only was Shatka Bear-Step a silversmith but he was also passionate about the Appaloosa horse breed. The Appaloosa Horse Club (an international breed registry), inducted Chief Shatka Bear-Step into their hall of fame in 1988, and on their website they describe him in this way: "An Appaloosa showman and promoter, Shatka Bear-Step added colorful and romantic aspects to the breed. Shatka was the father of Mr. Dick Spencer (Western Horseman Magazine) and a well-known silver and turquoise artist. He was featured on national television depicting the Lord's Prayer in Indian Sign Language. He produced several awards for the Appaloosa Horse Club, including the Shatka Bear-Step award given to the overall high point youth at each National Show."

His love for the Appaloosa breed is apparent in the book he wrote and illustrated, "Painted Ponies" It was originally published in 1952.

Date: 1960s

Measurements: Ring size 6, front 1-3/4" by 7/8"

Hallmarks: Bear-Step, Bear-Step's hallmark, 61 (most likely the year created), 524

Stones: Turquoise Note: All stones are analyzed by a certified Gemologist. To retain the integrity of the setting, gemstones are not removed to determine weights, clarity and color grades are therefore approximate.

Condition: Excellent condition