The History of Navajo Jewelry and Its Significance

Some of the best pieces of Native American jewelry are made by Navajo artists, and many of these wearable artworks are sought-after by jewelry enthusiasts and collectors around the world. The Navajo started out as a nomadic society, and back then, their symbols of prestige and prominence were beaded necklaces, concho ornaments, and decorated bow guards. The Navajo wore jewelry acquired from trade and conquest, too, and the pieces were made of silver, copper, and brass. Certain pieces were worn to express a sense of pride and showcase beauty.

The Spanish introduced silversmithing to Native Americans in the Southwest, including the Navajo. Since then, tribes and pueblos have developed and perfected their own unique techniques and styles of jewelry making, which they passed down from generation to generation. These time-honored methods of making Navajo jewelry are considered art forms. Navajo artists use hand tools and traditional techniques to create designs that rely on skill, patience, and imagination rather than machinery. No piece is exactly like another.

Tufa casting and sand-casting are two of the prominent methods of jewelry making that are still used by contemporary Navajo artists. The techniques require the silversmith to carve a mold into which molten silver is poured Often the molds will be destroyed after a single use Tufa cast bracelets, pendants, rings, and other pieces of jewelry often feature intricate designs and details that took a great amount of skill and time to complete.

Navajo jewelry is distinctive for its use of turquoise. Sources for this wonderful stone include mines primarily found in Arizona and Nevada. The lovely blue stone is considered by the Navajo to be a gift from the heavens. Hence, some of the earliest forms of valuable Navajo pieces were carved turquoise beads. The stone was associated with happiness, good luck, and healing. Navajo jewelry can also include beautiful coral, lapis, and other materials.

Three Famous Native American Jewelry Artists

Native American jewelry is truly unique. Each piece speaks volumes about culture and history, skill and heritage, beauty and emotions. If you are looking to collect or purchase Native American jewelry, here are three famous artists you should know about:

1. Thomas Curtis – Award-winning Navajo jeweler, Thomas Curtis, had over 50 years of experience in creating jewelry professionally. He is best known for silver jewelry pieces that are stamped with amazing and intricate designs, such as an interwoven look. Thomas used hardened steel and then carved it with chisels to create his outstanding stamps. He honed his skills since childhood and his creations continue to be sought after by serious collectors. His simple yet elegant designs set the standard for many contemporary artists of today and he remains a pioneer in world class Native American jewelry.

2. Julian Lovato – A master craftsman, Julian Lovato is known for his intricate and highly collectible jewelry. He is an excellent silver and goldsmith, and his pieces masterfully incorporate elegant metal work with precious stones such as turquoise and coral. Coming from a family of jewelry makers, Julian worked as a stone cutter and a silver monogrammer. Some of his pieces include brooches, cufflinks, rings, buckles and exquisite necklaces. Aside from jewelry, Julian Lovato also made collectible teapots, pitchers, silver bowls, and trays. He remains an icon in the world of Native American jewelry.

3. Liz Wallace – Innovative and revolutionary, Liz Wallace is a contemporary jewelry artist who specializes in the use of natural turquoise stones. She is inspired by nature, creating pieces that depict dragonflies and butterflies and other creatures. Wallace’s parents are both silver and goldsmiths. Her unique pieces make her works more than just jewelry but rather an art. Some of her creations can be found in museums throughout the country.

You can purchase wonderful pieces from these famous Native American jewelry artists online. With their popularity, you might stumble upon look-alikes, but they are nowhere near the quality and mastery of the originals. Make sure the pieces you purchase from Native American jewelry artists come with a certificate of authenticity.