Look for Designer Jewelry by Rebecca Begay Online

Rebecca Begay has been an artist since she was young, but it was with help from her husband Darryl that she learned the tufa casting method, which she soon incorporated in her creations. Working with tufa enabled her to create abstract designs and images on her jewelry. Her designs typically start out as drawings before she carves and casts them. Each designer piece she makes has a unique touch, since she carves new molds for every cast. When you buy a Rebecca Begay piece, you are buying something nobody else has.

Many of Rebecca’s one-of-a-kind pieces are sold online, but be careful. Make sure that you are buying from an authorized retailer that specializes in carrying a wide selection of Native American jewelry by different artists. This is the best way to ensure that you are getting the genuine article.

Some of Rebecca Begay's most notable creations are bracelets and pendants that feature pops of color from gems and stones like turquoise, mother of pearl, lapis lazuli, and coral. Color is one of the most important features in her pieces of jewelry, and since she uses only the finest gems, you can be sure that you are investing in highly collectible jewelry that can add value to your collection. Rebecca's inspiration for her designer jewelry mainly comes from who she is—an artist mother, Navajo woman, and Christian, 

When purchasing Rebecca Begay jewelry online, always make sure that it is from a source that is reputable and known to carry authentic Native American pieces. No matter what you buy, make sure that it comes with a certificate of authenticity to guarantee the name of the artist, the materials she used, her tribal affiliation, and the piece's retail value. Some retailers work closely with Rebecca Begay, too, so they may be able to order custom pieces on your behalf.

Tips for Buying Vintage Native American Jewelry

Native American jewelry pieces are typically valued as collectibles, especially vintage ones. Owning a vintage piece or two can certainly add more value to your collection. Native Americans are known for their superb craftsmanship and their penchant for using only the finest materials in their jewelry, resulting in one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect their culture, lifestyle, events, and unique stories from every tribe. You can buy vintage Native American jewelry online, but be sure to explore these tips to make sure that you are buying authentic and high-quality pieces: 

• Buy only from an established and reputable retailer – Verify the seller's background and reputation by looking up feedback and reviews online. The best retailers are known to work with numerous Native American artists, so they are authorized to carry and sell the pieces, too.
• Choose retailers that deal directly with Native American jewelers and turquoise miners – Without the middlemen, they are able to offer Native American pieces to you at highly competitive prices. Make sure that they are established retailers that have been in the business for at least four decades. This way, you can be confident that you are buying authentic pieces from a reputable and trustworthy business.

• Look for a certificate of authenticity – Genuine vintage Native American jewelry comes with its proof of authenticity to assure collectors of the name of its artist, retail value, materials used, and the tribal affiliation.

• Take a closer look at the piece and examine signs of its authenticity – Authentic Native American jewelry typically has the signature of the silversmith, a hallmark, or both. However, take note that not all Native American artists sign their work, so the absence of those elements does not necessarily compromise authenticity. If the piece is not signed, take a look at the quality and type of materials that were used. Authentic vintage Native American jewelry is typically made of sterling silver, often utilizing gem-grade turquoise or coral

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.