Richard "Richie" Baker 18K Gold Carved Eagle Pendant with Diamond – Squamish/Kwakwaka’wakw Artist, 6.3g, Signed RB

Authentic Northwest Coast Hand-Engraved Gold Pendant Symbolizing Power, Vision, and Leadership in Indigenous Tradition
This 18K yellow gold pendant by acclaimed Squamish Nation and Kwakwaka’wakw artist Richard "Richie" Baker features a meticulously hand-engraved Eagle in classic formline style, with a prominent hooked beak, ovoid eye, and flowing U-forms representing feathers and wings, set with a 10-point diamond as the eye for added brilliance and symbolism. In Northwest Coast cultures, the Eagle is a revered crest figure embodying power, vision, leadership, and spiritual insight—as a messenger between worlds and master of the skies, it represents clarity, courage, and guardianship, with the diamond amplifying attributes like enlightenment and foresight. Weighing 6.3 grams, the disc-shaped pendant showcases Baker's masterful goldsmithing, honed in North Vancouver, with deep relief carving and balanced composition against the polished surface—a rarer 18K purity reflecting his high-end commissions. Signed "RB" on the reverse, this piece affirms provenance from the late artist (1962–2024), celebrated for fusing Coast Salish and Kwakwaka’wakw heritage in jewelry that honors ancestral motifs. 
 
Condition: Excellent, with high shine and sharp engraving details—no dents, scratches, or wear, and the diamond securely set with full sparkle.
 
Features:
Solid 18K yellow gold, 6.3 grams, for superior purity and refined presence
Hand-engraved Eagle in traditional formline, with ovoid eye, hooked beak, U-forms, and diamond-set detail
Disc-shaped pendant with deep relief carving for dimensional contrast
Signed "RB" for artist authentication and cultural provenance
Symbolism: Eagle as messenger of power, vision, leadership, clarity, and spiritual connection
 
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Who is the artist?
A: Richard "Richie" Baker (1962–2024), a Squamish Nation (Coast Salish) and Kwakwaka’wakw master carver from North Vancouver, renowned for engraved gold jewelry blending traditional motifs.
 
Q: What does the Eagle symbolize?
A: In Northwest Coast traditions, Eagle represents power, vision, leadership, clarity, and guardianship, often as a spiritual messenger and clan crest.
 
Q: Is it authentic?
A: Yes, signed "RB" matching Baker's documented hallmark on similar pieces in galleries like Cheryl’s Trading Post.
 
Q: How do I care for it?
A: Gently clean with a soft cloth; avoid chemicals to protect the gold, engraving, and diamond setting.