Jewelry

Navajo jeweler, Etta Belin, made this sterling silver ring and set bright blue turquoise in it.  The flowers, vines, and leaves make it very special!  Adjustable half a size up or down.

This braided sterling silver baby bracelet was made by Navajo jeweler Elaine Tahe.  The ends of the bracelet are very smooth, making it easy to put on and take off baby.  Feel free to search for "baby bracelets" on our site to see more.

Size: 3.675" with .75" opening

Harrison Bitsue is a master at creating tufa cast jewelry, more about the jewelry making method of tufa cast below.  This bracelet has natural turquoise with golden matrix set it in the center.  The sterling silver above and below the turquoise resemble feathers with stamp-work.  The oxidized satin finish gives it a vintage appearance. 

Size: 4.75" L with 1" Opening - Center 1.25" H, narrows to .5" at the ends

Tufa is a volcanic stone which can be as dense as chalk and has an organic texture. The first thing a jeweler does is examine a piece of tufa for any tiny fractures.  If it looks good, the tufa is cut in half and if there is a design, it is carved into the tufa in reverse to how the piece will come out.   There is a pour hole carved into the top and several narrow vents carved into each side.  The two pieces are then bound together tightly and molten silver or gold is poured through the hole at the top.  If there are any microscopic cracks, the tufa explodes when the metal is poured in and the process has to begin again.  This process usually makes one piece of jewelry, but sometimes the mold is good enough for more than one piece. 

How would you like a hummingbird fluttering around your hand all day?  This sterling silver inlaid hummingbird ring was handmade by Zuni Jeweler Tamara Pinto.  The wings are Sleeping Beauty malachite and pink mussel shell, the face is Sleeping Beauty turquoise and red coral, The body is abalone, and tail is Sleeping Beauty turquoise and gold lip mother of pearl. All of the stones are engraved to simulate feathers.  What a treasure!  More about hummingbirds below.

Size: 8.5 - Hummingbird is 1.5" L x 1.375" W

Hummingbirds are fierce defenders of their families.  Many Indigenous people consider them to be messengers between this world and the spirit world.  And, in some tribes they are considered to be “love medicine”.

This Rainbow of Stones Necklace was made by Navajo jeweler Helen Tsosie.  The stones include turquoise, lapis, amethyst, spiny oyster shell, agate, serpentine, mother of pearl, tiger eye, amber, jasper, and abalone with heishi between each stone.  All of this beauty ends with a sterling silver beads, cones, and a hook and eye clasp, along with a 2.75" sterling silver extender.

Two sterling silver feathers dangle from these bright blue turquoise set in sterling silver posts.  They were handmade by Navajo jeweler Annie Spencer.

Size: 2" H 

This classic sterling silver Navajo ring has a lovely sky blue turquoise.  Around the bezel is a border of twisted sterling and sterling silver that has been cut out by hand.  The band is double shank.  

Size: 7 - Stone setting is 1.5" L x .75" W

Navajo artist Tom Dinetso created this Flowers All Around ring.  A perfect reminder of summertime flowers long after they are gone.  Each flower and leaf is crafted by hand and they are separated by three silver dots.  

Band is .375" Wide

Navajo jeweler Bobby Platero created this sterling silver Flower cigar band ring.  The flower and raised side water drop shaped are repousse crafted.  Cigar band rings are wider in front and narrower in back, making them very comfortable to wear.

Size: Front .5" - Back .25"

These Vintage Turquoise Bear & Feather Earrings were part of a collection of vintage Native American jewelry.  We estimate that they were made in the 1980s.   Above each bear is pen shell heishi and below are two sterling silver feathers (not handmade).  They dangle from sterling silver wires.  The patina on the silver accumulates with age but can be polished off if the wearer prefers shinier silver.

Size: 3" H includes wires - Bears .5" H x 1" W

Expertly crafted for durability and style, our Bold Sterling Silver Navajo Bracelet showcases an intricate Navajo design by Elaine Tahe.  Crafted from sterling silver, it has three rows of twisted sterling silver framed by smooth silver on each side. Perfect for any occasion, this bracelet is a timeless addition to any jewelry collection. 

Size: 5" with 1" opening - .75" Wide

Expertly crafted with triple twisted and flattened silver wire, this Navajo bracelet by Elaine Tahe is a beautiful addition to any jewelry collection.  It will add interested and shine to your wrist!

Size: 5" with 1" opening

This Navajo stamp-work silver bangle bracelet showcases intricate designs and expert craftsmanship. Made with precision and attention to detail, this bracelet is a statement piece that effortlessly adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. Handcrafted by Navajo jeweler, Elaine Tahe.

Size: 6" 

Expertly crafted by Navajo artisans, this silver bangle features a unique twisted design. Handmade with traditional techniques, it showcases the beauty and skill of Navajo jeweler, Elaine Tahe. Elevate your style with this stunning piece, perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions.

Size: 6" 

This highly detailed silver Navajo bracelet is a stunning addition to any jewelry collection. Crafted with precision and intricate details, this bracelet showcases the expert craftsmanship of Navajo jeweler, Elaine Tahe. Made from sterline silver, it exudes a timeless elegance and sophistication. A must-have for those seeking a unique and high-quality piece.

Size: 5" with 1" opening

Navajo jeweler, Pearlene Spencer, made this sleek, sterling silver bear paw ring.  The shadowbox setting highlights the bright blue turquoise in the center.  The inside of the shadowbox and the setting around the stone is oxidized to turn it black.  "S" and "Sterling" are stamped inside. More about bears below.

Size: 9 - Bear Paw: .875" H x .675" W

Bears are the guardians of the western gate in Zuni Pueblo.  They are associated with healing at all levels, protection, and a reminder to restore oneself during the winter months.  In some traditions a part of the bear is rubbed all over infants to imbue them with power, strength, and good health.

This fancy sterling silver bear paw ring has red coral set in the center.  Surrounding the bear paw is lovely scrolled sterling silver.  The inner shadowbox has been oxidized to give it a black appearance which makes the bear claws stand out.  More about bears below.

Size: 9 -  .875" H x .75" W

Bears are the guardians of the western gate in Zuni Pueblo.  They are associated with healing at all levels, protection, and a reminder to restore oneself during the winter months.  In some traditions a part of the bear is rubbed all over infants to imbue them with power, strength, and good health.

This fancy sterling silver bear paw ring has a gaspeite set in the center.  Surrounding the bear paw is lovely scrolled sterling silver.  The inner shadowbox has been oxidized to give it a black appearance which makes the bear claws stand out.  More about bears below.

Size: 6.5 -  .875" H x .75" W

Bears are the guardians of the western gate in Zuni Pueblo.  They are associated with healing at all levels, protection, and a reminder to restore oneself during the winter months.  In some traditions a part of the bear is rubbed all over infants to imbue them with power, strength, and good health.

Navajo jeweler, Leta Parker, made these shiny sterling silver post earrings.  Available stones include red coral, lapis, denim lapis, and lavender. The inner shadowbox has been oxidized to give it a black appearance which makes the bear claws stand out.  Turquoise is set in the center of the paw. More about bears below.

Size: .675" H x .5" W

Bears are the guardians of the western gate in Zuni Pueblo.  They are associated with healing at all levels, protection, and a reminder to restore oneself during the winter months.  In some traditions a part of the bear is rubbed all over infants to imbue them with power, strength, and good health.

Navajo jeweler, Leta Parker, made this shiny sterling silver ring.  The inner shadowbox has been oxidized to give it a black appearance which makes the bear claws stand out.  Turquoise is set in the center of the paw.. More about bears below.

Size: .675" H x .5" W

Bears are the guardians of the western gate in Zuni Pueblo.  They are associated with healing at all levels, protection, and a reminder to restore oneself during the winter months.  In some traditions a part of the bear is rubbed all over infants to imbue them with power, strength, and good health.

Navajo jeweler, Leta Parker, made these shiny sterling silver post earrings.  The inner shadowbox has been oxidized to give it a black appearance which makes the bear claws stand out.  Red coral is set in the center of the paw.. More about bears below.

Size: .675" H x .5" W

Bears are the guardians of the western gate in Zuni Pueblo.  They are associated with healing at all levels, protection, and a reminder to restore oneself during the winter months.  In some traditions a part of the bear is rubbed all over infants to imbue them with power, strength, and good health.

We love this tiny sterling silver ring with inlaid with natural Sleeping Beauty turquoise.  The setting looks like a bird in flight to us.  This ring is perfect to wear on petite fingers, baby and child gifts.  So affordable and sweet!

Navajo jeweler Selena Warner set orange with red streaks spiny oyster shell in this ring.  there are four round sterling silver accents on the top and bottom of the bezel.  The sterling silver was oxidized to give it a vintage look.  "SW" and "STERLING" stamped inside.

Size: 6 - Stone Size: 1.5" H x .675" W

Navajo jeweler Selena Warner set orange with red streaks spiny oyster shell in this ring.  there are four round sterling silver accents on the top and bottom of the bezel.  The sterling silver was oxidized to give it a vintage look.  "SW" and "STERLING" stamped inside.

Stone Size: 1.375" H x .675" W

Mary Louise Tafoya from Kewa Pueblo in New Mexico made this beautiful butterfly necklace.  It is strung it on soft pink stone and turquoise beads.  The butterfly is made of abalone, serpentine, turquoise, spiny oyster shell, and stitchtite.  Mary Louise signs each of her necklaces with her name and her signature flower. 

Length: 19", Pendant: 2.5" H x 1.5" L x .25" W

Jewelers from Kewa Pueblo have been creating mosaic inlay jewelry for over a thousand years.  Some of the ancient Kewa jewelry can seem quite modern in their designs.  The stones, and/or shell, are cut into shapes which are then put together like a puzzle on a backing.  The backing can be shell, jet, or other materials like epoxy, records or sheets of plastic which was used during times when materials were hard to come by.  Prior to colonization and the use of metals in Native American jewelry making, the earrings were hung on handmade string.

Zuni jeweler, Deanna Edaakie, made this lovely sterling silver hummingbird pin/pendant.  The stones include gold lip Mother of Pearl, jet, abalone and natural turquoise and red coral.  On the back is a .675" long pin and a loop for beads or a chain.  There is also writing on the back that we could no make out.

Size: 1" H x 1" W

Hummingbirds are fierce defenders of their families.  Many Indigenous people consider them to be messengers between this world and the spirit world.  And, in some tribes they are considered to be “love medicine”.

Zuni jewelers Samuel and Esther Guardian are a married couple who have been making inlaid jewelry for decades.  The stones in this sweet hummingbird ring include red coral, malachite, abalone, jet, serpentine, Mother of Pearl, and turquoise.  More about hummingbirds (love medicine) and channel inlay below.

Size: 3 - Setting 1.5" L x .5" W

Hummingbirds are fierce defenders of their families.  Many Indigenous people consider them to be messengers between this world and the spirit world.  And, in some tribes they are considered to be “love medicine”.

Channel inlay jewelry is a process used extensively by Native American jewelers, particularly those in Zuni Pueblo.  Many other talented jewelers from other tribes in the Southwest also make channel inlay jewelry.  The metal channel, usually silver, is soldered onto the back to create the design.  Afterward, the stones are cut to fit into each section.  It is an exacting process which shows in the beauty of the work of the finished piece(s).

The turquoise in this sterling silver ring by Ray Jack is gorgeous bright turquoise blue with golden matrix.  The setting is detailed with straight lines that extend into the bezel holding the stone.  

Size: 12.5 - Stone setting: 1.5" H x .75" W

Zuni jeweler Breon Wallace made this striking Thunderbird ring.  Black jet, Mother of Pearl, natural Sleeping Beauty turquoise, and coral are inlayed into sterling silver.  "B.Wallace" and "Zuni" are engraved onto the back.

Thunderbirds are considered to be powerful intelligent forces of nature by many Indigenous people and have with the power of thunder.  They are sometimes associated with lightening.

Navajo jewelery Harry B. Yazzie is known for his vine, leaf, and flower sterling silver jewelry.  A flower is centered in this ring with leaves and vines above and below.  Silver balls are on each side of the flower, as well as at the top and bottom.  "HBY" and "Sterling" are stamped inside.

Navajo jeweler Marlene Martinez made this very traditional ring.  The Kingman turquoise is a brilliant color and the natural red coral compliments it beautifully.  We love the fan detail on each side of the stones, as well as as the five silver balls next to the turquoise.  "M" and "Sterling" are stamped inside.

Size: 10.75 - Setting: .875" H x .75" W

Zuni jeweler, Romero Vacit, made this pendant with a Sunface in the center.  Around the Sunface are feathers which are inlaid with jet and natural Sleeping Beauty turquoise.  The Sunface is inlaid with the same turquoise, red coral, mother of pearl, and jet.  The Sunface is what the Sun Katsina wears when it dances in Zuni and Hopi Pueblos.

Size: 1" H x .875" W

This handmade Zuni needlepoint Sleeping Beauty turquoise necklace and earrings has a total of 21 stones.  We especially like the little pendant that dangles from the bar of needlepoint on the necklace.  We think it was made Veronica Yawakia, but it isn't marked and we don't remember exactly who made it.  It has a hook and eye clasp, and the length can be shortened by attaching the hook to a shorter bit of chain.

Necklace size: 18" Long - Needlepoint: 1.5" W x .75" L (includes pendant) - Earrings: .675" H (does not include wires) x .5" W

This Navajo handmade sterling silver Beautiful Bug brooch has a beautiful Bisbee turquoise set in the body.  Elegant stamp-work graces the wings.  The pinback is horizontal on the body which would make it easy to wear as a pendant by threading a chain through it.  This broach was part of a larger collection of vintage Native American jewelry.  Made in the 1940s to the early 1950s.

Size: 1.25" L x 1.375" W

Kewa Pueblo jeweler, Ramona Bird, made these hand-rolled pen shell heishi bead earrings.  Each strand has two turquoise beads.  They are strung on sterling silver cones and hooks.

Size: 2.675" L - includes wires

Hand Rolled Beads Hand-rolled beads are made by chipping out pieces of stone or shell.  A hole is drilled into the center of each chip.  The chips are strung on a wire and rolled, and rolled, and rolled until they are all the same width.  Sometimes they are graduated – a difficult task!  They are then polished until smooth.  There are hand-rolled necklaces from Kewa Pueblo that are over a thousand years old.  In the “old days”, the holes were drilled with a hand-pump drill, strung on handmade string, and rolled on sandstone.   There is nothing quite like hand-rolled Kewa beads!

Many of the Pueblos in New Mexico took on Spanish names after colonization and are now taking back their original names.  Kewa Pueblo is the traditional name of the place and the people.  It was known as Santo Domingo Pueblo for many, many years.