Featured Hopi silver buckle

This silver buckle was a gift from my parents in the 1970's, but I've only found limited information regarding the silversmith, Robert Lomadapki.

I don't know enough about turquoise to identify the grade of stone, or its possible origin. I'd be grateful for any insight regarding the buckle, or the artist, and if his work is considered rare or collectible.

The buckle fits a 1.5" width belt.

 

If you google Robert Lomadapki you get a brief biography. Ebay has several buckles priced $900-3000 but no sold prices.

 

Google provided the only information I could find. I hope someone here might know a bit more. Apparently he was active in the 1970's, but I haven't found any examples from since then.

 

I like the way he hammered out the base to provide texture...but that shadow box paw design is not high on a collectors wish list..... as it is most often reproduced on lesser works...
Still......the artist makes this piece of better value than others... imo

https://lens.google.com/search?ep=g...CalVVVjFlRFl4WHpJd1dFRTRhWEZ2UVRKQ1p3PT0iXQ==