High Relief Overlay Silver Cuff by Jerrold Tahe

This striking cuff bracelet is the work of Navajo silversmith Jerrold (“J.”) Tahe, known for his mastery of heavy-gauge silver and deep, architectural relief. Born in Fort Defiance, Arizona, Tahe learned silversmithing from his mother, Nora Tahe, and his stepfather, Emerson Bill—both accomplished jewelers in their own right. Over the years he’s become celebrated for his bold, stone-free creations, using nothing but silver, depth, and light to tell his story.

Each of Tahe’s cuffs begins with thick sterling stock, hand-shaped and stamped using custom tools he often forges himself. This piece exemplifies his signature overlay technique, in which two layers of silver are carefully cut, joined, and carved to create dimensional contrast. The surface is richly detailed with raised patterns that alternate between smooth polish and oxidized depth, creating a sculptural interplay of light and shadow. Unlike flat stamping, Tahe’s relief work gives the metal a sense of movement—you can feel the rhythm of each hammer strike in the texture.

The repeating motifs suggest balance and protection, rendered through bold geometric forms—ovals, arcs, and points that echo the harmony often found in traditional Navajo design. There’s a strength and symmetry here that feels timeless, a visual language carved directly into the metal rather than ornamented on top of it. The cuff’s wide band and substantial weight give it a commanding presence, yet the interior is polished to a smooth, comfortable finish that makes it suitable for regular wear.

Collectors prize J. Tahe’s work for its precision, durability, and unmistakable style. His pieces bridge the gap between tradition and contemporary artistry—minimal in composition but monumental in form. This cuff, with its deep relief and hand-forged integrity, stands as a testament to that lineage: a wearable sculpture crafted to endure generations.

• Dimensions: 2 5/8" across, 1 1/2" wide, 2 1/4" deep, 1 1/4" gap at closure
• Materials: Sterling Silver
• Hallmarks: J. Tahe, Sterling