Navajo Sterling Silver Hair Barrette By Roy Vandever

Mid/Late 20th Century 

1.9375" L x 3.8125" W + 4.125" L Sterling Silver Stick

Hand Made from Sterling Silver with One Turquoise and One Coral Stones with a Sterling Silver Leaf Motif Design and a Sterling Silver Leaf Stick Signed By Roy Vandever R

In Very Good Condition

Roy Vandever (also spelled Vandover/Vandiver in some listings; 1936–2009) was a Navajo (Diné) silversmith from the Prewitt, New Mexico area, active roughly from the 1950s until his death. He is documented for sterling silver work featuring stampwork, shadowbox designs, and chip inlay, often incorporating turquoise, coral, shell, or other stones. His typical hallmark is “RV” (sometimes described as Gothic-style letters close together). He is listed in references such as American Indian Jewelry III: M-Z by Gregory and Angie Schaaf and Hallmarks of the Southwest by Barton Wright. Family connections include parents Walter and Emma Vandever; he was married to Donna Vandever and had several children who continued in related work.