I found an old silver and turquoise belt buckle that was hand-tooled in New Mexico about 35 years ago. The back of the buckle has a stamp on it from the artist. Does anyone know how I can trace the artist or find the value of the belt buckle?
eringobraghless
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I have a book of Native American hallmarks....do you know what tribe? Zuni....Navajo??? And can you describe the mark?
If you are in New Mexico or Arizona, it would be easier to get an appraisal. In other states, it can be hard to get a qualified estimate. Don't go by eBay prices...Native American jewelry is an absolute bust online. When I lived in California, it was difficult to get a figure.......you need a Southwest silversmith or museum to appraise it.
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Look at http://native-american-store.fournotes.com/index.php?term=buckle&category=98495&sort=0&search=1
It is a page of recent internet auctions of Native American-designed belt buckles. If you see one of a similar style there, you can see what people are willing to pay for it. (Better than going to an appraiser and getting a "book value" that may or may not have any real-life application).
Good luck! :)