HOT ! Native American Navajo Multi-Stone Butterfly Inlay Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet by M. BAHE

At a Glance

Signed M BAHE sterling silver butterfly cuff attributed to Marie BaheWide mosaic-inlaid butterfly centerpiece with matching side panelsVivid color contrast framed by silver beadworkNotable collector example of inlay work attributed to Marie Bahe

Bracelet Features:

• .925 sterling silver


• Inlay work with turquoise, mother-of-pearl, coral, black and ivory-tone materials


• Butterfly motif and side panels framed by beaded wire appliqué


• Strong triple-split shank construction with clean interior finish


• Hallmarked by the silversmith
  


• Condition: Very Fine — see SCJ Vintage Condition Guide
  

Bracelet Specifications:

• Wear scale: medium statement cuff


• Centerpiece inlay: 1 1/2\" x 2\"


• Face width: 1 5/8\"


• Inside length: 5 1/16\"


• Gap: 1 1/4\"


• Total inside circumference: 6 5/16\" (S per SCJ size guide)


• Weight: 52.3 grams
  

ABOUT THIS PIECE:

This sterling silver cuff centers on a colorful butterfly inlaid mosaic set on a wide triple-split shank, an engaging piece that brings together a motif long appreciated in Native American culture with a Navajo interpretation of an inlay technique most closely associated with Zuni work. The matching side panels extend the mosaic design across the wrist, while beaded wire appliqués add texture and definition, complementing the piece\'s clean geometry. 

The inlay combines turquoise, mother-of-pearl, coral, black stone (likely jet or onyx), and an ivory-tone material with soft orange hues, arranged in curved and angular segments. The layout is consistent with stone-on-stone inlay, a technique that requires precise cutting and fit. Smooth silver surfaces provide a restrained backdrop for the mosaic, allowing the color contrast and symmetry to carry the composition.

The triple-split construction gives the bracelet width while maintaining an open, balanced feel. The combination of careful stonework, measured silverwork, and clear structure contributes to the bracelet’s collector appeal.

Signed pieces attributed to Marie Bahe appear publicly more often in turquoise-set sterling forms than in mosaic inlay. Within that visible market record, this butterfly cuff stands out as a rarer example. Accordingly, the attribution to Marie Bahe rests solely on the maker’s mark and comparison with other pieces sold under her name, rather than on stylistic analysis.

ARTISAN NOTE:

Marie Bahe is identified in available hallmark references as a Navajo maker. Public biographical information appears limited, and no reliable published source has been found that directly connects her to the well-known silversmith Tom Bahe or to another documented Bahe jewelry lineage. However, the Bahe surname appears repeatedly in contexts related to Navajo jewelry, including exhibits, markets, and secondary sales platforms, suggesting that jewelry making is a recurring association among individuals who carry the name.

PERFECT FOR:

• Collectors of signed Native American jewelry


• Admirers of butterfly motifs and figural jewelry


• Anyone with an appreciation for inlay-focused jewelry


• Wearing as a statement Southwestern cuff with denim, black, ivory, or other clean solid tones

✨Collectors Circle members receive a welcome offer on their first purchase.