These vintage hummingbird earrings from the 1990s are hand-crafted by Zuni artist Carlene C. Leekity. The stud earrings are inlaid with blue turquoise, onyx, and mother-of-pearl, as well as spiny oyster shell, set in sterling silver. The bright blue turquoise pops against the black onyx and iridescent mother-of-pearl. These are fun Native American bird earrings to add to your collection!
Carlene C. Leekity was a distinguished Zuni jewelry artist renowned for her intricate channel inlay work, often depicting motifs such as bald eagles and hummingbirds using materials like turquoise, mother-of-pearl, coral, and jet. Active from at least the 1960s until her passing in 2014, her meticulously handcrafted pieces are highly sought after by collectors and are considered rare treasures in the world of Native American jewelry.
The earrings are in very good vintage condition with minimal signs of wear. Under magnification, the stones and silver surface show slight signs of wear, but no stones are chipped or cracked. The silver has a moderate layer of patina that can be polished upon request. The earring backs are marked C.C. LEEKITY ZUNI.
The earrings measure 1 inch tall and 3/4 inch wide, weighing 4.36 grams. The box is for display only.
