This section dedicated to Native American jewelry never ceases to inspire and amaze. Besides the significance of history and culture tied into each piece, jewelry is unique in that it’s wearable art. Native American jewelry is especially lavish, with most pieces adorned in natural gemstones such as turquoise, coral, pearl, jade and malachite. Across tribes, tradition and technique are passed down, providing a glimpse into the past and the legacy that echoes throughout each work of art. This section offers a look at contemporary and historic works in a variety of themes and styles, ranging from bolo ties and belts, to necklaces, rings and cuffs. And they are all available for purchase.
Abby Kent Flythe Fine Art
Award winning Yaqui/Spanish artist Danny Romero created this intricate inlaid portrait buckle using carefully selected stones of Number 8 turquoise, fossil ivory, lapis, jet, coral and mother of pearl shell. The portrait is a side profile of a young Navajo man with hair tied in a traditional manner, wearing a turquoise tab earring and wrapped in an early chief’s style blanket. Romero passed away in 2018, but has left a legacy of timeless works of art treasured by collectors and museums all over the world.
(540) 538 9406 » info@abbykentflythefineart.com » www.abbykentflythefineart.com
================================
Craft in America
Featured here is the Monument Valley belt buckle made by Navajo/Hopi jeweler Jesse Monongya, who will be highlighted on the PBS series Craft in America. The series examines creativity in America, and Monongya’s segment will broadcast on December 10 on PBS stations and their video app. Monongya is based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is known for his depictions of the galaxies and the heavens in a contemporary Native American design. His pieces are laden with lapis, jade, malachite and diamonds set in 18k gold.
Los Angeles, CA » (310) 951-0610 » info@craftinamerica.org » www.craftinamerica.org/episode/jewelry
================================
Blue Rain Gallery
This unique belt titled Five Piece Transformation by Denise Wallace, is a work of art and engineering. It’s comprised of fossilized ivory, chrysacolla, chrysoprase, coral, 14k gold, sterling silver and leather. Each figure from the belt can be removed and worn independently as a pendant. The half man/half walrus piece with the radiating halo in the center can be removed a couple of different ways (with or without the halo) and work as either a pendant or a brooch. The arms on all the figures articulate and the leather is extremely soft and supple. This piece was purchased directly from the artist in Santa Fe, New Mexico, in August of 1992 by a collector from Texas. The belt was never worn; it was safely kept in cloth packing material and has been saved as a family heirloom until now.
544 S. Guadalupe Street » Santa Fe, NM 87501 » (505) 954-9902 » info@blueraingallery.com » www.blueraingallery.com
================================
Cherokee Art Market
These matching cuffs titled (Grand)mother’s Love by Tim Blueflint Ramel (Chippewa/Comanche), speak to the importance of strong matriarchal influence and teaching. It reminds us that, while we look to the heavens in prayer, we can see manifestation in the natural world around us. Generation after generation, our beloved matriarchs watch over us and guide us, as represented by the golden dragonflies. These sterling silver cuffs are fabricated, hand textured and synclastic formed with solid 14k gold overlaid stars and dragonflies. Contact the artist for measurements.
(702) 497-7062 » tblueflint@yahoo.com » www.timblueflint.com
================================
Savvy Collector
Architectural strength, perfection of execution and thoughtful detail define this ingot silver cuff by Diné artist Kenneth Begay (1913-1977), available from Savvy Collector. Created for a favorite White Hogan patron during the 1950s, this unique bracelet is imagination realized through a master’s skill. An intricate pattern of chiseled and filed lines frame and connect three low profile, freehand repoussé pyramids. Subtle doming of the cuff creates a special “earth curve” perspective. Kenneth Begay’s vision and clear “voice” continue to inspire collectors and generations of artists seeking their own voice and place in time.
(602) 906–1633 » ccainaz@gmail.com » www.savvycollector.com
================================
Cowboys & Indians Antiques
This silver stamped bracelet has a beautiful central oval turquoise stone, made with excellent silversmithing skills. It’s handmade twisted wire work on either side of the turquoise cabochon, with high-quality Bisbee turquoise. The stone is also flanked by fan shape stamped shields over the heavy split band, with deep stamping on the ends. It’s Navajo or Pueblo made in New Mexico or Arizona, from 1940 to 1950s. Contact the shop for measurements.
4000 Central SE » Albuquerque, NM 87108 » www.cowboysandindiansantiques.com
================================
Four Winds Gallery
Shown here is a classic Navajo box bow squash blossom necklace, made with the highest grade of No. 8 Spiderweb turquoise, set by an exceptional Navajo silversmith. Featured in the January 1974 Arizona Highways magazine, this masterwork came from the Buck Saunders Gallery, the first art gallery in Scottsdale which opened in 1949.
5512 Walnut Street » Pittsburgh, PA 15232 » (412) 682-5092 » info@fourwindsgallery.com » www.fourwindsgallery.com
================================
Jack’s Antique
This is a rare turtle squash blossom jewelry suite with bracelet, ring and screw back earrings. This collection is unsigned, and is most likely Zuni or Santo Domingo, made around the 1940s or 1950s. It’s handmade from sterling silver, turquoise, Cypraea Tigris (also known as Tiger Cowrie shell), and strung on double strand beads with a hook and eye closure. Marine shell beads have been used since ancient times in the American Southwest. The turtle has always been a sacred symbol for the Native Americans, symbolizing the values of Mother Earth as well as healing, wisdom, water, protection, longevity and fertility.
4650 N. US Hwy 89, Suite G014 » Flagstaff, AZ 86004 » (928) 526-0696 » jack@jacksantique.com » www.jacksantique.com
================================
Davida Lister
Artist Davida Lister likes to call this necklace Sleeping Beauty Lacy Necklace. The design is delicate and has over 170 sleeping beauty turquoise stones, measuring around 20 by 24 inches in length. “The inspiration behind this masterpiece comes from my mom,” says Lister. “My mom and dad are David and Alice Lister, both world renown artists for over 45 years. My mom is fierce in every way possible. This necklace embodies creativity and a matriarch that dates back two generations. As a female Diné artist of eight years, I believe that my art has part of my heart and soul. My work is inspired by everyday women that love to wear jewelry casually, to women that layer their jewelry and dress up.”
Mesa, AZ » (775) 303-8062 » davidalister7@gmail.com » www.davidalisterjewelry.com
================================
Heard Museum Shop
This one-of-a-kind necklace was purchased from Navajo artist, Boyd Tsosie, who has been actively making jewelry since the 1970’s. It’s a multi-stone beaded strand necklace/pendant with red and pink coral, sugilite, turquoise, and lapis with 14k bezel, accents and findings.
The artist and his brother, Richard Tsosie, were two of the new wave of Indigenous artists featured in the 1979 Arizona Highways Jewelry Collector’s edition along with Jesse Monongye, Gibson Nez, James Little and Larry Golsch. He is well known for his impeccably crafted pieces with intricate inlay and high-grade gemstones.
2301 N. Central Avenue » Phoenix, AZ 85004 » (602) 252-8344 » shops@hard.org » www.heardmuseumshop.com
================================
Home & Away Gallery
This spider ring was created by Earl Plumber (Navajo), an award-winning silversmith, having been awarded Best of Classification in jewelry at the Santa Fe Indian Market in 2013. The generations-long tradition of silversmithing continues with the work of his four children. Spider Woman is an important character in traditional Navajo beliefs. This ring pays tribute to Spider Woman in the juxtaposition of natural turquoise and black jade in spiderweb shapes, as well as in the spider matrix in the turquoise itself. The coral cabochon provides a striking contrast in color. The superb inlay of this ring makes it a master work worthy of any collection.
(207) 423-8473 » david@homeandaway.gallery » www.homeandaway.gallery
================================
Hippie Cowgirl Couture
This ornate cuff made by Russell Sam (Navajo), features an earthy Royston stone rich in blue, green and copper accents. Fashioned with sunrises, moons and concho designs, the sterling silver detailing perfectly highlights the superb stone. Given the level of artistry, it’s no surprise this piece naturally carries a distinct presence with it. This cuff is a wearable work of art the wearer will cherish for a lifetime as a unique addition to their collection.
(817) 975-4065 » hippiecowgirlcouture@gmail.com » www.hippiecowgirlcouture.com
================================
Hindman Auctions
Coming up on December 16, Hindman Auctions is proud to present its Holiday Native American Jewelry Online Auction. This sale contains wonderful and unique pieces from the collections of Michelle Smith, Washington, D.C.; the Chadwick Family Collection, New York; and Patricia Ann Black Smyth, Santa Fe, New Mexico, sold to benefit Berea College, Berea, Kentucky. Included in the sale are these whimsical and colorful Zuni mosaic inlay pins and pendants. Inlaid with a mix of colorful stones including turquoise, spiny oyster, coral, shell and jet, these pieces show the refined skill of lapidary that the Zuni have mastered.
6270 Este Avenue » Cincinnati, OH 45232 » (513) 871-1670 » erinrust@hindmanauctions.com » www.hindmanauctions.com
================================
Gene Billie
The bolo tie, Existence/Resistance, is a tribute to the problem of global warming and the deterioration of Mother Earth. Created by Gene Billie, represented by Native Jewelers Society, the piece is hand fabricated from sterling silver and hung on a handmade leather strap. Many of Billi'es creations signify the portrayal of Native Warriors, both women and men. The piece shows a Diné (Navajo) Warrior portrayed above Earth, and is wearing a Diné war hat, welding a tomahawk and shield, standing ready to protect. The turquoise that embolds the face is from Stormy Mountain in Nevada, and the body is set with a natural Damele Nugget. The Earth and the arrowhead bolo tips are set with natural Patagonia turquoise from Arizona.
www.nativejewelerssociety.com
================================
Adobe Gallery
This Diné-made silver concho belt consists of 10 silver and turquoise conchos and a similar, but larger, buckle. Each concho measures 2 inches in diameter, and the buckle measures 2.3 inches in diameter, and has a copper strip attached to the back through which the leather belt is threaded. Incredibly, each small turquoise piece was carved with a slight curved arrangement and rounded at the top, and inserted in a raised silver channel designed to elevate the circle of turquoise above the level of the silver concho discs. A single turquoise gemstone was placed at the center of each concho and the buckle. It likely dates to the middle of the 20th century.
221 Canyon Road » Santa Fe, NM 87501 » (505) 955-0550 » info@adobegallery.com » www.adobegallery.com
================================
Jesse Robbins
This coin silver ingot bracelet, measuring at 5½ by 1¾ inches wide with a 1-inch opening, fuses Robbin’s years of hand wrought silver work with his passion for turquoise lapidary. Careful stamp and file work creates a strong foundation for the rich colors offered by the natural Sierra Nevada turquoise and Mediterranean coral. Through his work at his own mine, the Cheyenne Turquoise Mine, Robbins is fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time when fellow miners in Nevada uncover some of the best rock. This Sierra Nevada turquoise mined by Silver State Turquoise, in the Candelaria Hills, truly brings this bracelet to life.
(928) 713-6847 » jesserobbinsaz@gmail.com
================================
JT Willie
Pictured here is a squash blossom set made to portray an old-style Navajo design. Stones are natural Kingman turquoise. The set is designed for a blossom necklace, with matching bracelets, rings, earrings and a pendant. Beads are all handmade and all sterling silver. “Buying authentic and direct allows artist like myself to reinvest in our communities and our work,” says Willie. Your investment in an artisan’s work goes along way and allows our creativity to reach new limits. Each piece is uniquely made from design to finish piece.
Window Rock, Arizona » (505) 979-6659 » jt.willie@yahoo.com » www.jtwillie.com
================================
Leota’s Indian Art
This one of a kind fabricated sterling silver ring by Navajo artist Raymond C. Yazzie, is set with Sea of Japan red coral. It is both 16- and 14-gauge silver. The dragonfly design on each side is inlaid with all handcut stones by Yazzie. He is an amazing artist that is always creating new designs and pushing himself to a higher level. He is extraordinary with his exceptional lapidary skills. This would be an amazing piece for any collection.
(713) 898 4315 » leota@leotasindianart.com » www.leotasindianart.com
================================
Miles and Miles Trading Post
Toney Mitchell (Navajo) is a multiple award-winning silversmith and designer, and Santa Fe Indian Market participant. “I’ve always enjoyed Mitchell’s work because he incorporates unusual stones in his designs,” says Barbara Miles, owner of Miles and Miles Trading Post. Mitchell is noted for his talent in chiseling, cutting and making cut-out work with his overlay technique. It is obvious that his Navajo heritage is reflected in his cultural beliefs. He is also known for his fine work with coral and exceptional bolos. The stones pictured here are sugilite, which are both beautiful and somewhat rare.
San Francisco, CA » (415) 519-7797 » miles@milesnativearts.com » www.milesnativearts.com
================================
Mudhead Gallery
This rare and exceptional large Bisbee squash blossom necklace is made by renowned Navajo silversmith, Mark Chee (1914-1981). This is one of the award-winning artist’s finest works, and was likely made in the early-mid 1960’s. There are 13 Bisbee stones in the Naja and 14 large Bisbee stones in the blossom portion of this magnificent, historical work of art. Unquestionably, this World War II Army veteran was able to expertly highlight the precious gems seen in this one-of-a-kind piece.
1720 Wazee 1B » Denver, CO 80202 » (303) 293-0007 » mudhead@qwestoffice.net » www.mudheadgallery.com
================================
Palace Jewelers at Manitou Galleries
Jennifer Curtis, daughter of famed silversmith Thomas Curtis, is the most respected female Navajo silversmith working today. She is known for her traditional yet innovative style and recognized for her precise stamp work and file designs in heavy-gauge sterling silver. All of Jennifer’s designs are original and she often uses stamps that were her father’s or that she has made herself. These handcrafted stacker bracelets are highly sought after and collected by admirers of the Curtis family’s work.
123 W. Palace Avenue » Santa Fe, NM 87501 » (505) 984-9869 » www.manitougalleries.com
================================
Sunwest Silver
Sunwest Silver Gallery is celebrating handmade works like these classic earrings by well-loved Diné silversmiths Art Platero and Lee Sandoval. Each stone comes from the same mines that once supplied legendary pharaohs and kings. Mined from the original, ancient mines of the Sinai Peninsula, Prince turquoise is a naturally hard stone with rich color variations and strong sienna red and golden matrixes. As in the Southwest, Egyptian reverence for turquoise is evident in historical references, and the modern culture continues to honor its significance and sacred nature.
324 Lomas Boulevard » NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102 » (800) 771-3781 » www.sunwestsilver.com
================================
Western Trading Post
Shown here is a unique textured choker style necklace by Preston Monongye (Hopi), with a handmade chain (making it easy to wear at different lengths). This stunning piece is made from sterling silver.The sides and pendant are tufa cast with the pendant featuring a bear paw with turquoise, coral, onyx and shell inlay. Tufa casting is a process where the design is carved into tufa stone. Both the obverse and reverse of the image are carved to form a mold. Molten silver or gold is quickly poured into the mold to create the piece. Finishing involves removing slag, then adornments are added and polished.
403 N. Florence Street » Casa Grande, AZ 85122 » (520) 426-7702 » www.westerntradingpost.com
================================
Shane Hendren
These bracelets are fabricated from solid sterling silver bar stock, hand engraved and set with emeralds. They are another exquisite example of Shane Hendren’s innovation that has marked his 31-year career as a jeweler. He is known for his use of techniques and materials not typically found in Native American jewelry. His work is representative of what collectors should be looking for when they start collecting: an artist who is creating original designs, from the best materials they can acquire with their own hands.
(505) 350-7484 » shanerhendren@hotmail.com » www.shanerhendren.com
================================
Silver Eagle Gallery
The stunning Sonoran Gold turquoise in these pieces is mined near Cananea, Mexico. Colors of aqua, lime green and gold with specks of pyrite are found within the turquoise nuggets. The unexpected colors give these traditional pieces a fresh look. The heavy gauge sterling silver provides the weight and substantial feel of this authentic, handmade Navajo jewelry. The cluster cuffs and cluster pendant are by Navajo silversmith B. Johnson. The large cluster earrings are by Navajo artist Ella Peters. The necklace is by Navajo artist Kathleen Chavez, and the long Sonoran Gold and Golden Hills turquoise earrings are by Navajo silversmith Paul Livingston.
Naples, FL and Highlands, NC » www.silvereaglegallery.com
================================
The Dancing Rabbit Gallery
The stones in this beautiful necklace are natural gem-grade Kingman Spider Web turquoise. Each piece is hand cut from rough turquoise. The artist, Piki Wadsworth (Hopi), drills, shapes and polishes each stone with precision. The graduated beads are strung at 23 inches in length, and are enhanced with three turquoise “corn beads” in the center. These gorgeous stones are accented with handmade 18k gold spacer beads and finished with gold cones and clasp. Piki is rapidly becoming one of the best Native American jewelers of the current generation. Her magnificent pieces are found in select galleries carrying the finest Native American jewelry.
(505) 850-2212 » katie@thedancingrabbitgallery.com » www.thedancingrabbitgallery.com
================================
Raynard Scott
Raynard Scott is an award-winning jewelry artist from Wide Ruins, Arizona, on the Navajo Nation, and represented by the Native Jewelers Society. Rooted in his Diné (Navajo) traditions, Scott is further inspired by exploring the outdoors and different cultures. His creations are included in many public collections both in the United States and internationally. A father of four and grandfather of three, Raynard spends time with family in Arizona and in his studio in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The bracelet pictured here, Blue Skies and Butterflies, is hand-constructed in sterling silver. Three layers were built up to achieve the unique design, upon which a high-grade turquoise from the No. 8 mine was set. Raynard’s jewelry style is contemporary and sculptural. His designs incorporate layered, contrasting textures and one can see influences of ancient Egyptian jewelry.
rjscottdesigns@gmail.com » www.nativejewelerssociety.com
================================
Waddell Gallery
Pictured here is a fabulous, large early inlaid bracelet by Charles Loloma (Hopi), purchased directly from the artist. This rare sterling silver bracelet is inlaid with turquoise, ironwood and coral, and measures 5½ inches with a 1¼-inch opening and 1¾ inches in width. “We always recommend buying from a reputable gallery or dealer and advise on asking for an appraisal of what they are purchasing, which includes materials and any provenance of the piece,” notes Waddell Gallery. “We suggest looking for items made with high-grade materials, because these pieces always hold their value.”
7144 E. Main Street » Scottsdale, AZ 85251 » (480) 990-1004 » www.waddellgallery.com
================================
True West
The collection of silver pieces pictured here, is by Hopi artists Anderson and Berna Koinva. The pieces are sterling silver overlay done in the traditional method of curved (domed) style, not flat overlay as most overlay jewelers create. They have been making their jewelry for over 30 years. Big box retailers have sought out their work, but Anderson wants every piece to be handmade. The red necklace also pictured here, is sterling silver made by a Navajo artist. It consists of spiny oyster and silver from the Bilagaanas collection. All materials are handmade and hand stamped.
130 Lincoln Avenue, Ste E » Santa Fe, NM 87501 » (505) 982-0055 » info@truewestsf.com » www.truewestgallery.com
================================
Turquoise Mountain
Featuring hundreds of varieties of stones—including turquoise, coral, opal, shell and many other materials—Turquoise Mountain is quickly becoming one of the hot destinations for jewelry afficionados and jewelry makers. Located in the heart of Phoenix, Turquoise Mountain is owned by Navajo jeweler Xavier Bitsui, who uses his trained eye as an artist to help aspiring and veteran jewelers find the right materials for their next pieces. From small beads in all shapes and sizes, including Heishi, to large gem-quality stones for major showpieces, Turquoise Mountain carries something for everyone, from hobbyists to professional Native American jewelry masters.
(505) 399-1508 » www.turquoisebeadsandcab.com
================================
Topaz Spirit Jewelry
This large and colorful Knifewing pendant and two matching smaller versions are the art of famous Zuni jewelers Herbert and Esther Cellicion. The husband-and-wife silversmiths favor Knifewing, Rainbow Man and butterflies. The pendants were from a vintage bolo and made into a squash blossom-style necklace, paired with handmade silver beads and Sleeping Beauty turquoise accent beads. Topaz Spirit Jewelry by Jo Adams, takes a passion for authentic Native American pieces and makes them into highly wearable art while preserving and respecting the integrity of the original piece.
Scottsdale, Arizona » topazspiritjewelry@gmail.com » www.topazspiritjewelry.com
================================
Sandbar Trading Gallery & Auction
Lee and Mary Weebothee, names that are well known by Native American jewelry collectors, are considered to be among the top Native American silversmiths and lapidary artists to have come out of Zuni. Their work spanned four decades from the time that the husband-and-wife team began making jewelry together after they were married in 1949. The bolo tie pictured here, has turtle shell, silver and Sleeping Beauty turquoise. It measures at 20-inches in length, with the slide measuring 3.5-inches long by 3-inches wide, and 1.5-inches in height. Each of the silver tips measure 3-inches. It’s very wearable however, many collectors do show off their jewelry collection similar to “art on the wall” or a “sculpture on a table.”
Wichita, Kansas » (316) 655-7477 » rick@sandbartrading.com » www.sandbartrading.com
Powered by Froala Editor
