The Exquisite Jewelry of Thomas Curtis

It is rare to find jewelry that combines simple elegance and outstanding traditional designs. This is what makes the jewelry of master Navajo artist, Thomas Curtis, some of the most highly prized and collectible Native American jewelry of all time. Thomas Curtis was a pioneer in the use of classic and timeless Navajo jewelry designs utilizing unique stamps and heavy gauge silver, often set with incredible natural American turquoise and Mediterranean coral. His designs were influenced by his upbringing. Thomas belonged to a family of creative and talented silversmiths. He was encouraged by his grandfathers to craft traditional Navajo jewelry at age 12. 

Thomas Curtis used his own stamps to create simple, exquisite one of a kind pieces from concho belts and buckles to beautiful squash blossom necklaces and bracelets. His use of heavy gauge silver adds to the quality apparent not only in the appearance of each piece, but in the value of the materials by which it was made. His bracelets reflect his skillful silver work and ability to create handmade details with the finest tools. Thomas found inspiration from his traditional life on a Navajo reservation and his surroundings. There is nothing frilly or unnecessary in his design elements. Each piece has been carefully created to highlight his mastery of simple elegance. 

If you prefer a thinner bracelet, consider his heavy gauge sterling silver wire piece. Its symmetrical stamp work is both delicate and deep to represent the artist's signature style. Thomas created the bracelet to provide a perfect feel on the wrist. Its elegant detail is enthralling. 

The heavy gauge sterling silver ring is another notable Thomas Curtis creation with remarkable detail and skillful craftsmanship. He cut the piece out of thick and heavy sterling silver. He then deeply stamped it before filing. Thomas used fine reverse stamping method to create the complicated interwoven design. This bracelet is one of his last creations before he died in 2013. 

Thomas Curtis jewelry pieces are rare. If you are lucky enough to buy one of his creations, be sure that it comes with a certificate of authenticity. This should certify his name, tribal affiliation, the value of the piece, and materials used. Buy Thomas Curtis jewelry from a reputable online store that specializes in American Turquoise and Native American jewelry.

Julian Lovato Jewelry: Timeless Elegance

Collectors worldwide are familiar with the exquisite, elegant simplicity of Santo Domingo (Kewa) Pueblo pioneer master silver and goldsmith, Julian Lovato.  Julian Lovato jewelry features the finest grade natural American turquoise and Mediterranean coral that can make your jewelry collection a dazzling treasure trove of bright and lovely hues. Each piece created by this incredible artist has been designed using both traditional and contemporary design elements. His jewelry transcends time with its understated elegance. 

It is rare to find Julian Lovato jewelry nowadays, so once you see something you like, consider buying it as soon as you can. Be sure to purchase Julian Lovato jewelry from a reputable retailer online. The piece should come with a certificate of authenticity that assures you of the artist's name and tribal affiliation, as well as the materials used and the retail value of the jewelry. Julian's necklaces are among the highly prized possessions of avid collectors of fine jewelry. One of the necklaces that you should consider is the vintage, rare gem grade Bisbee Turquoise necklace. 

Julian created this exceptional necklace that is made from heavy gauge sterling silver. The piece has a double pendant linked to an adjustable link chain, which he handcrafted himself. Both the lower and upper sections of the pendant are set with deep blue gem grade Bisbee Turquoise. The gems are distinctive for their timeless lavender and reddish brown matrix and blue hue. Julian provided his signature sunburst around the large gems, and they radiate towards the outer border. The necklace has a unique clasp to connect the lower and upper sections. Five matched Bisbee gems spread from the lower part of the pendant to further emphasize the large cabochon. 

The rare gem grade Lone Mountain turquoise necklace is another one of Julian Lovato's elegant creations. It has a handmade chain in his iconic and complex loop design, with ten gem grade natural Lone Mountain turquoise cabochons that came from his private collection. The pendant was handmade to the shape of a floral leaf, and it is made of heavy gauge sterling silver.