Curtis Pete (Navajo (Diné)/Hopi), sterling silver overlay pendants on leather cords.Curated by Tsali Hall (Diné), director of Palace Jewelers, the show includes 250 jewelry works by renowned artists such as Jennifer Curtis (Diné), Curtis Pete (Diné/Hopi), Arland Ben (Diné), Roger Wilbur, Valerie Fairchild, Don Supplee (Hopi), the Lee Family (Diné), Darryl Dean Begay (Diné) and many more. Work by artists of this caliber can be found in museum collections and the pieces they create are highly sought-after by collectors.

Henry Sam (Navajo (Diné)), Vintage Concho Belt, sterling silver and turquoise.

Collectors, holiday shoppers and jewelry enthusiasts will have the opportunity to meet the artists, and learn about their process, and the inspiration behind their work at the opening reception on December 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. The works will remain on view through the end of the month.

“Our holiday collection highlights the exceptional talent of some our award-winning artists, particularly those gaining international recognition,” says Hall. “Each piece showcases a unique style, artistic mastery and cultural heritage, with various designs and price points to appeal to a global audience. Every item tells its own story while contributing to the rich narrative of Manitou’s Palace Jewelers.”

Jennifer Curtis (Diné), sterling silver hand-stamped earrings and ring, and orange spiney oyster shell cuff bracelet.

Hall points to the hand-stamped earrings and sterling silver Naja pendant by Jennifer Curtis, daughter of renowned Navajo silversmith Thomas Curtis, as pieces to keep an eye out for. “Pair these with an orange spiny oyster shell cuff bracelet and ring featuring traditional Navajo stamps by Thomas Curtis to complete your festive look,” advises Hall.

Arland Ben (Diné), assorted cut off petroglyph designs on rings and earrings with heavy stampwork.

Arland Ben (Diné), assorted cut off petroglyph designs on rings and earrings with heavy stampwork.

About her process, Jennifer says, “Most of my work starts from a flat sheet of sterling silver or already formed wires. All hand-stamped, cut with a hand saw, hand-filed and formed in a cottonwood stump. This is how I was taught by my late father Thomas Curtis Sr. Some may think I cast my work, due to the heavy look of the piece, but no casting is ever done. I like to challenge the formation of the silver which is endless and magical. Quality is very important to me in hopes of never getting my work back for repairs, which is why I use thick silver.”

Matagi Sorensen (Yavapai-Apache), contemporary designed sterling silver bracelets and earrings.

If you’re looking for a contemporary, edgy look, Hall suggests Pete’s sterling silver hummingbird pendants which reflect the artist’s mastery of traditional Navajo and Hopi craftsmanship. Born in Parker, Arizona, Pete moved to the Navajo reservation when he was 4 years old and was raised by his grandparents. When Pete was 27, he began learning the techniques of silversmithing from his uncle, Robert Yellowhair. After branching out on his own, he specialized in traditional designs and styles. Over the years, he has also learned and mastered the working of gold. His overlay and stamp-work is clean, well executed, and lends itself beautifully to the concho belts, bracelets, necklaces,  rings and earrings for which he is known. Curtis’ work has continued to evolve, as the artist has diverged from his more traditional style to experiment with exciting new designs with equal mastery.

Jennifer Curtis (Diné), sterling silver Naja pendants. 

Another piece of note is a vintage turquoise sterling silver concho belt by Navajo artist Henry Sam. “The high-quality turquoise, intricate stamp design, and brown leather will increase in value over time, becoming cherished heirloom for future generations,” says Hall.

Curtis Pete (Diné/Hopi), sterling silver overlay thunderbird pins.

“Our Holiday Jewelry Showcase is more than an exhibition; it’s a celebration of timeless artistry and cultural heritage,” Hall continues. “Each piece in our collection is a testament to the extraordinary talent of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists, whose craftsmanship transforms tradition into wearable art. This season, we invite you to meet the visionaries behind these creations and discover jewelry that tells a story—a perfect blend of heritage and contemporary design.” 

December 6-31, 2024
Palace Jewelers at Manitou Galleries
123 W. Palace Avenue, Santa Fe, NM 87501
(505) 984-9859, www.legacygallery.com

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