Sonwai (Verma Nequatewa) Sterling Silver Inlaid Bracelet

$12,000.00

This bold and vibrant cuff bracelet by Sonwai (Verma Nequatewa) features hand-inlaid lapis, turquoise, coral, and fine gold line accents, set in sterling silver. The precise geometric composition showcases her masterful craftsmanship and striking color harmony, making it a stunning example of contemporary Native American jewelry. She signed the inside of this bracelet “Sonwai” with her hallmark and profile butterfly stamp.

 

Dimensions: 7/8th W taper to 1/2

Bracelet Size: 5″ 9/16th

Bracelet Opening: 1″

In Stock

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Artist:

Faust Gallery

Sonwai (Verma Nequatewa)

b. 1949, Hotevilla, Arizona  ·  Hopi

Hopi jewelers Charles Loloma and his niece Sonwai, Verma Nequatewa, together in the studio

Charles Loloma and Sonwai

Sonwai is the artistic name of Verma Nequatewa, one of the foremost Native American lapidary artists working today. The niece and longtime apprentice of the legendary Charles Loloma, she signs her work Sonwai, the feminine Hopi word for beauty, the counterpart to Loloma, the masculine word that was her uncle's name.

Working primarily in 18-karat gold set with the finest turquoise, coral, lapis, and sugilite, she hand-cuts each stone and fits the pieces together like a puzzle into the luminous stone-to-stone inlay that has become her signature. In 2018, the Heard Museum honored her with a retrospective, Sonwai: The Jewelry of Verma Nequatewa.

"Often, it is the stones that tell me what to do with the inlay. I work with them to help them become what they can be."

— Sonwai

Sonwai pendant in 18-karat gold with multi-stone inlay

Sonwai, 18k gold and inlay

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This exceptional cuff bracelet by renowned Hopi jeweler Sonwai (Verma Nequatewa) is a true masterwork of contemporary Native American jewelry. Handmade in sterling silver, the bracelet features a vibrant inlay of lapis lazuli, turquoise, red coral, and fine gold lines—each stone meticulously cut and inlaid.

As the niece and former apprentice of the legendary Charles Loloma, Sonwai carries forward his innovative legacy while continuing to evolve her own unique voice in Native American art. Working from her studio in Hotevilla, Arizona, on the Hopi Reservation, she creates one-of-a-kind pieces that honor cultural tradition while pushing the boundaries of design and material.

More than a bracelet, this piece is a wearable sculpture—a museum-quality example of fine Native American jewelry.

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.