The best wildlife artists don’t just capture what an animal looks like—they capture what it feels like.
This hummingbird isn’t perched. It isn’t posed. It’s frozen in that impossible split second between wingbeats, hovering over a blooming flower as if time itself paused. That’s the difference between jewelry and miniature art, and it’s exactly why collectors chase the work of Ruddell and Nancy Laconsello.
Details
- Artists: Ruddell & Nancy Laconsello
- Tribe: Zuni
- Hallmarked RN Laconsello Sterling Zuni
- Sterling Silver
- Hand-cut stone inlay
- Turquoise, jet, coral, mother-of-pearl, and shell
- Convertible pendant and brooch
- Approximately 2 inches in diameter
- Hand-fabricated
Why We Love It
The Laconsellos are among the finest pictorial inlay artists in Zuni jewelry, and this piece showcases exactly why. Every feather, flower, and leaf was individually cut, engraved, and assembled into a scene that feels remarkably alive.
Rather than simply outlining the hummingbird, the artists used subtle engraving and carefully selected materials to create movement and depth. The vibrant turquoise border frames the composition without overwhelming it, allowing the eye to settle naturally on the bird as it hovers over a desert bloom.
The versatility of this piece makes it even more special. Wear it as a dramatic pendant on Navajo pearls or display it as a statement brooch—either way, it’s a conversation piece that reflects the highest level of Zuni lapidary artistry.
Condition
Excellent vintage condition with beautiful original patina. The inlay remains secure and vibrant, while the convertible pin and pendant hardware functions as intended.
Eric’s Note
I spend a lot of time looking for jewelry that’s technically impressive. Every now and then, though, I find something that’s emotionally impressive.
This is one of those pieces.
You can tell the artists weren’t just filling silver with stones—they were telling a story. The hummingbird feels weightless, the flowers have movement, and the whole scene has a quiet joy that’s hard to put into words. It’s the kind of piece you notice from across the room, but the longer you hold it, the more details reveal themselves.
That’s what great art does. It rewards your attention
The best wildlife artists don’t just capture what an animal looks like—they capture what it feels like.
This hummingbird isn’t perched. It isn’t posed. It’s frozen in that impossible split second between wingbeats, hovering over a blooming flower as if time itself paused. That’s the difference between jewelry and miniature art, and it’s exactly why collectors chase the work of Ruddell and Nancy Laconsello.
Details
- Artists: Ruddell & Nancy Laconsello
- Tribe: Zuni
- Hallmarked RN Laconsello Sterling Zuni
- Sterling Silver
- Hand-cut stone inlay
- Turquoise, jet, coral, mother-of-pearl, and shell
- Convertible pendant and brooch
- Approximately 2 inches in diameter
- Hand-fabricated
Why We Love It
The Laconsellos are among the finest pictorial inlay artists in Zuni jewelry, and this piece showcases exactly why. Every feather, flower, and leaf was individually cut, engraved, and assembled into a scene that feels remarkably alive.
Rather than simply outlining the hummingbird, the artists used subtle engraving and carefully selected materials to create movement and depth. The vibrant turquoise border frames the composition without overwhelming it, allowing the eye to settle naturally on the bird as it hovers over a desert bloom.
The versatility of this piece makes it even more special. Wear it as a dramatic pendant on Navajo pearls or display it as a statement brooch—either way, it’s a conversation piece that reflects the highest level of Zuni lapidary artistry.
Condition
Excellent vintage condition with beautiful original patina. The inlay remains secure and vibrant, while the convertible pin and pendant hardware functions as intended.
Eric’s Note
I spend a lot of time looking for jewelry that’s technically impressive. Every now and then, though, I find something that’s emotionally impressive.
This is one of those pieces.
You can tell the artists weren’t just filling silver with stones—they were telling a story. The hummingbird feels weightless, the flowers have movement, and the whole scene has a quiet joy that’s hard to put into words. It’s the kind of piece you notice from across the room, but the longer you hold it, the more details reveal themselves.
That’s what great art does. It rewards your attention
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