3 Tips to Find Thomas Curtis Jewelry Online

Known as a classic Navajo jewelry designer, Thomas Curtis is known for his exquisite sterling silver boxes and timeless jewelry pieces. He has won many awards and has gained a reputation as a premier silversmith. Before his death in 2013, Thomas Curtis lived on the Navajo reservation where he created stunning pieces inspired by the sky, the plants, and the seasons. Aside from being an extremely skillful silversmith, he was also a champion rodeo rider. He passed on his immense artistic skills to his daughter Jennifer Curtis, who is also known for her exquisite jewelry and intricate boxes
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The good news for collectors is that although they are becoming increasingly rare, Thomas Curtis jewelry is still available online. You can still buy this artist’s pieces from reputable retailers and traders of authentic Native American jewelry. The key is to know how to steer clear of fakes. Here are some tips:
  

1. Buy from a reputable seller that works directly with Navajo artists. Check the company’s profile to see where it is based, how many years it has been in business, how it sources its jewelry, and essentially, its story.
  

2. Sellers of authentic Thomas Curtis jewelry have very limited stocks. It is very hard to source genuine pieces made by this artist, so expect a small selection. A retailer who claims to have hundreds of Thomas Curtis jewelry boxes or rings on hand is probably selling fakes. There simply isn’t enough inventory.

3.  Honest retailers proudly list the hallmarks on an item. Their descriptions are detailed, with clear information on materials and techniques used to create the piece.
 

Buying fake or reproduction Native American jewelry hurts the artists who produce authentic pieces as well their communities. By settling for inexpensive ‘Native American inspired’ jewelry that is made abroad using cheap materials and labor, you are simply fooling yourself. Always buy authentic Thomas Curtis jewelry online from reputable retailers. There is pride in knowing that you are wearing a beautiful piece made by a real Navajo artist and that you are helping to support their cultural heritage.