Reano, Charlene Shell Bracelet “Spiny Oyster Inlay”

$6,800.00

Charlene Reano · San Felipe Pueblo

Carved Shell Bracelet with Spiny Oyster Inlay

This Charlene Reano shell bracelet is carved entirely from shell, with no metal frame. Charlene Reano inlaid the band with purple and orange spiny oyster shell, then accented the design with mother-of-pearl. Made around 1990, it is a fine early example of the shell mosaic work for which she and her husband, Frank Reano, are known.

Materials — Hand-carved shell

Inlay — Purple and orange spiny oyster shell, mother of pearl

Date — Circa 1990

Size — 5¼, with a 1¼ in. opening (cannot be sized)

Width — 1½ in.

Hallmark — Unsigned

A Charlene Reano Shell Bracelet

Shell mosaic is one of the oldest jewelry traditions of the Rio Grande Pueblos. Here, the shell itself forms the bracelet. First, the band was shaped and carved from shell. Then each piece of spiny oyster was cut and fitted by hand, with purple and orange shell set side by side and mother of pearl adding bright accents. As a result, the colors sit flush and smooth across the surface of the cuff.

Because the bracelet is made of shell rather than metal, it cannot be resized, so please check the fit before you buy. It is a size 5¼ with a 1¼ in. opening and measures 1½ in. wide. In addition, the piece is unsigned, which is common for Pueblo shell mosaic of this period.

About Charlene Reano

Charlene Reano was born at San Felipe Pueblo in New Mexico around 1960 and married into Santo Domingo (Kewa) Pueblo through her husband, Frank Reano. She learned mosaic work from Frank’s sister, Angie Reano Owen, one of the artists who revived the art form. Since the early 1980s, Charlene and Frank have worked as a team: she designs, cuts, and sets the inlay, while he grinds and finishes each piece. Their work has won ribbons at the Santa Fe Indian Market and the Heard Museum Guild Fair. Today, a Charlene Reano shell bracelet like this one shows the precision behind their decades of work together.

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Bracelet Sizing Guide: How to Measure Your Wrist for the Perfect Fit

Choosing the right bracelet size is essential for both comfort and style. Whether you’re purchasing a cuff or a link design, our simple guide below will help you measure your wrist accurately and find the ideal fit.

Step-by-Step: How to Measure Your Wrist

You only need a flexible measuring tape, a strip of paper, or a string.

Option 1: Using a Flexible Measuring Tape

  1. Wrap the tape snugly around your wrist just above the wrist bone (the area where you would normally wear a watch).
  2. Note the measurement in inches or centimeters.
  3. This is your wrist size.

Option 2: Using a String or Strip of Paper

  1. Wrap the string or paper around your wrist in the same location (above the wrist bone).
  2. Mark the point where the string overlaps.
  3. Lay the string flat and measure it with a ruler.
  4. This is your wrist size.

Choosing the Right Fit

Different bracelet styles may fit differently. Here’s a general guideline based on the style of bracelet:

Cuff Bracelets (Non-Adjustable)

Cuffs should fit snugly but comfortably. We recommend adding 1/4″ to 1/2″ to your wrist measurement depending on your desired fit:

  • Snug Fit: Add 1/4″
  • Comfort Fit: Add 1/2″

Example: If your wrist measures 6", a cuff bracelet that is 6 1/4" to 6 1/2" total (including the opening) would be ideal.

Chain or Link Bracelets

For flexible bracelets with clasps:

  • Add 1/2″ to 3/4″ to your wrist measurement for a comfortable fit.
  • A looser fit can be achieved by adding up to 1 inch.

Faust Gallery Bracelet Size Chart

Wrist Size (inches) Recommended Bracelet Size (cuff or chain)
5.5″ 6″ – 6.25″
6″ 6.5″ – 6.75″
6.5″ 7″ – 7.25″
7″ 7.5″ – 7.75″
7.5″ 8″ – 8.25″
8″ 8.5″ – 8.75″

Note: Cuff sizes include both the inner circumference and the opening.

Helpful Tips

  • If you’re in between sizes, choose the larger size for comfort.
  • Keep in mind that handmade cuffs often cannot be resized due to the materials and techniques used—accurate sizing is essential.
  • Feel free to contact us if you’re unsure. We’re happy to help you find the right fit for any piece.

Still Unsure? We’re Here to Help.

At Faust Gallery, we’re committed to ensuring your bracelet fits beautifully. If you need personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at sales@faustgallery.com or visit us in Scottsdale or Santa Fe for an in-person fitting.