Kingman Turquoise Buckle by Diné Silversmith Ernest Begay
In 1958, an Arizona Highways article defined The American Southwest as "the lands lying west of the Pecos, north of the Mexican border, south of the Mesa Verde and the Grand Canyon, and east of the mountains which wall off Southern California and make it a land in itself."
Authentic Native American jewelry from the Southwest is a vibrant, tangible expression of the nature of the artisans, their heritage, and this land. Cherished by collectors, beloved as signature Southwest and Western style, and an enduring tradition, each piece of Native American jewelry is a story, bound in sterling with passion and skill.
Zuni Petit Point
Understanding Styles
The traditions and heritage of the artist are reflected in the diverse array of styles to be found in the Southwest. The bold, sterling silver designs of the Diné or Navajo people are often adorned with stamp work, colorful, genuine turquoise, shell, and stone, a strong contrast to the delicate, intricate inlay stone work or needlepoint styles of the Zuni artists. Zuni fetishes are also often used in jewelry and are considered an art form of their own, incorporated into Native American necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. The Hopi people are renowned for their silver overlay styles, which are used to create stunning works with precise hand soldering. The intricate beads and finished beaded jewelry of the Santo Domingo people are recognized as a specialty lapidary & beading style unique to their generations.
While no single style is practiced only by one family or tribe, there are techniques & traditions that are acknowledged to be the specialty traditions of different Nations.
Tufac Cast Concho by Diné silversmith Rebecca Begay
Exploring Techniques
At the heart of Southwestern Native American jewelry lies a deep tradition of craftsmanship passed down through generations. Silversmithing is a cornerstone of this art form, and lapidary work involves cutting and polishing stones like turquoise, often from American turquoise mines, corals, colorful Spiny Oyster Shell, glowing Mother of Pearl, and others. Patterns and symbols in beaded jewelry, weavings, silverwork, pottery, significant and traditional stones, and techniques used, all speak to the traditions of the Native Artists, and their contemporary relevance is undiminished.
Do you have questions about how you can secure your very own Southwestern jewelry? Call us or visit our handmade website for info on turquoise & selections available from our local artisans.
1-800-771-3781
info@sunwestsilver.com
324 Lomas Blvd NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
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