Loloma, Charles Sterling Silver Bracelet “Nevada Blue Turquoise Inlay”

Charles Loloma · Hopi

Nevada Blue Turquoise Inlay Bracelet

This Charles Loloma inlay bracelet is hand fabricated in sterling silver and inlaid with high-grade Nevada Blue turquoise, with accents of lapis, coral, and ironwood. Charles Loloma separated the stones with fine lines of silver, which keep each color crisp and give the inlay its rhythm. Made in the 1980s, the bracelet is hand stamped with his stylized “Loloma” hallmark.

Metal — Hand-fabricated sterling silver

Inlay — High-grade Nevada Blue turquoise, lapis, coral, and ironwood, with fine silver spacers

Date — 1980s

Hallmark — Hand stamped “Loloma” in his stylized hallmark

A Charles Loloma Inlay Bracelet from the 1980s

Loloma’s inlay changed how Native American jewelry used stone. Rather than setting a single cabochon, he built the surface from many cut pieces, choosing each for color and placing them side by side like a composition. In this bracelet, the Nevada Blue turquoise leads, while lapis, coral, and ironwood add contrast and the silver lines hold the design together.

Most of Loloma’s bracelets were hand fabricated or tufa cast rather than lost-wax cast, and this one was built by hand in sterling silver. Today, his inlay bracelets are among the most collected pieces of Native American jewelry.

About Charles Loloma

Charles Loloma (1921–1991) was born in Hotevilla on Hopi Third Mesa. After serving in the Army during World War II, he studied at the School for American Craftsmen at Alfred University on the GI Bill and began making jewelry in 1955. He introduced gold and stones new to Hopi jewelry, developed his signature inlay of stones set at varying heights, and often set hidden “inner gems” inside his pieces. He helped found the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe in 1962 and won first prize at the Scottsdale National Indian Arts Exhibition seven years in a row. Today, a Charles Loloma inlay bracelet is one of the most recognized forms of his work.

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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.