Vintage 1980s Sand Cast Sterling Silver Kokopelli Ring by Ervin Hoskie

This vintage 1980s Kokopelli ring is a rare and meaningful creation by Ervin Hoskie, a celebrated Navajo silversmith known for his mastery in both silver and gold work. Hallmarked “EH” and “Sterling,” the ring is crafted using the traditional sand cast technique, a labor-intensive process passed down through generations of Navajo artisans. Each sand cast mold is hand-carved and typically used only once or twice, making every piece a unique expression of the artist’s vision.

The ring features a bold depiction of Kokopelli, the humpbacked flute player revered across Southwestern Native cultures as a fertility deity, agricultural guardian, and bringer of music and joy. His image dates back over a thousand years, appearing in ancient petroglyphs and pottery. In Hopi and Zuni traditions, Kokopelli is said to carry seeds and unborn children on his back, ushering in spring and abundance with the sound of his flute.

At the center of the ring lies a Sleeping Beauty turquoise cabochon, prized for its vivid sky-blue hue and sourced from the famed Arizona mine. This gemstone adds a luminous contrast to the oxidized sterling silver, enhancing the ring’s sculptural form and spiritual symbolism.

Ervin Hoskie’s work is featured in galleries and museums across the Southwest, and his pieces are sought after for their blend of traditional Navajo motifs and refined craftsmanship. This ring is not just jewelry—it’s a wearable artifact that honors Native heritage, artistic excellence, and the enduring spirit of Kokopelli.

• Dimensions: 13/16" wide, 5/8" high
• Size 8
• Hallmarks: EH, Sterling