Yei’ be’ Chei’ Lightning Buckle by Lester James (Navajo)

Sterling Silver | Turquoise Inlay

For many people, their first glimpse into Navajo ceremonial art comes through old photographs or postcards showing medicine men creating sandpaintings on the dirt floor of a hogan. These sacred images were never meant to last forever and were traditionally destroyed after the ceremony ended. That temporary beauty and spiritual symbolism continue to inspire Navajo artists today.

Navajo artist Lester James channels that tradition into this remarkable tufa cast belt buckle featuring a Yei’ be’ Chei’ figure holding lightning bolts. The buckle has the feeling of a ceremonial sandpainting translated into silver and stone. The stylized figure stands boldly at the center of the oval buckle, surrounded by open space that gives the design movement and balance.

James uses traditional tufa casting techniques to create the rugged sterling silver surface and organic texture throughout the buckle. The Yei’ figure is accented with carefully hand-cut turquoise inlay in varying shades of blue and green, bringing life and contrast to the ceremonial form. The lightning bolts add both symbolism and motion, echoing imagery found within Navajo ceremonial traditions.

There are many different forms of Yei’ within Navajo culture, connected to specific ceremonies, meanings, and teachings. Pieces like this are meaningful not only as wearable art, but also as artistic expressions of living cultural tradition.

A striking buckle with deep Southwest character, handcrafted by one of the artists most recognized for this ceremonial style.

Buckle Size – 3 1/8″ x 2 1/8″
Belt Size – 1 1/4″
Weight – 2 ozt