EYE-CATCHING OSCAR BETZ.

Crafted in a fresh spin on his signature chandelier, Oscar Betz used hand-cut and hand-set orange spiny oyster, sugilite, and verasite to make up the teardrop-shaped stones. Together they form a circle and in the center of that circle is a rope wire detail. At the top is a round sage stone with post-backs. Swinging style with unique pops of color!

Oscar Betz moved to Jerome, Arizona sometime between 1967 and 1979.  He was among the hippies, renegades, freethinkers, and artists who relocated to Arizona’s richest copper mining city during those years.  Many of his later years were spent in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  He is now recognized as a renowned Southwest Silversmith.  His work has been featured in galleries and movies, and also worn by many celebrities.  His work is highly collectible.

Oscar Betz’s work was most prominent in the 1970s and 1980s.  His pieces were actively sought out and purchased by Hollywood celebrities as well as collectors of fine one-of-a-kind handmade Indian jewelry.  He was one of the first Southwest artists to use many different stones together in one piece of jewelry.  Oscar’s work remains in high demand today.  Sought after by the likes of Ralph Lauren in the early ’90s.  Oscar crossed over into the fashion world with his remarkable jewelry.  Part of the popularity of the Betz earrings was that for their size they are well balanced and easy to wear.  Designs are set on 2 part silver frames that are hinged.

Oscar Betz (1954-; Anglo), Stone sets; stamp work.