Native American bolo ties, almost all Navajo, mostly in sterling silver and most set with turquoise, with a few in nickel or copper. Most feature sterling silver slides set with turquoise, coral, onyx or spiny oyster, and many are signed by the artist. The slides are handmade, and every listed bolo comes with an original certificate of authenticity.
What Makes a Navajo Bolo Tie
Almost all of the bolo ties here are Navajo work. Navajo silversmiths are known for hand stamping, repoussé, twisted wire borders and large cabochon stones set in handmade bezels. The slide is the centerpiece, and the cord tips are often finished in matching silver. Read more about the tradition in our Navajo jewelry guide.
Stones and Metals
Turquoise is by far the most common stone on these bolos, followed by coral, black onyx, spiny oyster, jasper, agate and lapis lazuli. You can learn how each stone is graded in our guides to coral and spiny oyster.
Most slides are .925 sterling silver. Some bolos use nickel or copper for the body or the slide mechanism, a few pair sterling silver with 12k gold filled details, and on a few the bolo mechanism on the back is not sterling silver or handmade. The product page lists the metals used, so check it if you need an all-sterling piece.
How to Wear a Bolo Tie
A bolo tie is worn like a necktie: slide it up to the collar of a buttoned shirt for a formal look, or wear it lower with the top button open for a relaxed style. It suits western wear, suits and dress shirts alike, and many people wear one at weddings, rodeos and powwows. Larger slides work best with wider collars. Some listings show a representative photo, so the piece you receive may vary slightly in stone color and pattern.
How to Check Authenticity
Turn the slide over: many bolos are signed with the artist's hallmark and stamped sterling. Authentic Native American jewelry must be made by a member of a recognized tribe, as the Indian Arts and Crafts Act requires. Our guide on spotting real vs fake Native American jewelry covers what to look for, and every bolo here includes an original certificate of authenticity.
Care Tips
Keep the cord dry and away from oils, and wipe the silver with a soft jewelry cloth. Store the bolo flat or hanging so the cord does not crease, and keep turquoise and coral away from perfume and cleaners.