How To Start Your Native American Jewelry Collection
Native American jewelry is special. These pieces hold stories of the creator, their culture, and their land. If you're captivated by the artistry of Native American turquoise rings, Zuni fetish carvings, or Navajo silver cuffs and want to own some, maybe it's time to start your own Native American jewelry collection.
You might think that starting your own collection is challenging and not realistic. Where do you even begin to look for genuine pieces that fit your style and budget? We’ll give you expert advice for building your own collection and acquiring items you love while supporting authentic artists.
Learn What You Like
Before you buy anything, take some time to browse and explore different styles, tribes, and materials to see what catches your eye. For example, are you drawn to the intricate stonework of Zuni artists, or do the bold silver designs of the Navajo Nation appeal to you more?
As you browse, familiarize yourself with different types of jewelry, such as squash blossom necklaces, concho belts, and bolo ties. Don’t forget to pay close attention to the materials used. Turquoise is a classic choice, but many artists also work with coral, spiny oyster shell, lapis, and other stunning stones. Getting a feel for your personal taste will make the selection process much more enjoyable and focused.
Educate Yourself on Hallmarks
Hallmarks are the signatures of Native American artists. These small stamped marks, often found on the back of a piece, identify the creator. Learning to recognize hallmarks helps you connect with the artists behind the jewelry and verify its authenticity.
You can find hallmark databases online or in books dedicated to Native American jewelry. As you explore, you might start to recognize the work of specific artists or families. This knowledge helps you appreciate the craftsmanship and build a collection with personal meaning.
Discover the Different Tribal Styles
Each Native American tribe has distinct jewelry-making traditions and styles. For example, Navajo jewelry often features heavy silverwork with prominent turquoise stones. Zuni jewelry showcases intricate lapidary art, known for detailed inlay and petit point designs.
Hopi artisans excel at the overlay technique, which involves soldering two pieces of silver together after cutting a design from the top layer. Understanding these differences will help you identify pieces and also deepen your appreciation for the cultural diversity within Native American art.
Set a Realistic Budget
Genuine, handmade Native American jewelry is an investment in art and culture. Prices can range from under a hundred dollars for a simple ring to thousands for an elaborate necklace by a renowned artist.
Given the dramatic differences in prices, you'll want to set a budget before you start shopping so you can stay within your financial limits. While it doesn't have to be massively high, it shouldn't be set too small either. Remember that you're paying for the artist's skill, time, and the quality of the materials. A realistic budget helps you narrow your search and make thoughtful purchases you'll treasure for years.
Start With a Single Piece
Building a collection doesn't happen overnight. Instead of trying to buy multiple items at once, focus on finding one special piece that you truly love. This could be a ring, a pair of earrings, or a simple pendant.
Starting with a single piece allows you to learn the ropes without feeling overwhelmed. You'll go through the process of researching, selecting, and purchasing, which builds your confidence as a collector. Plus, that first piece will always hold a special place in your collection.
Buy From Reputable Sources
This is perhaps the most crucial tip. To support Native artists and acquire authentic jewelry, you need to buy from reputable dealers, galleries, or directly from artists.
You can find these sources online, such as through an artist's personal website or a verified e-commerce platform specializing in Native American art. You can also visit brick-and-mortar galleries and cultural centers, often located within or near Native American communities. Look for sellers who can tell you about the artist and the history of the piece. A reputable dealer will be transparent about their sourcing and happy to answer your questions.
What you should be cautious of are tourist traps and online stores that offer suspiciously low prices. Other red flags to watch for include poor-quality product photos, negative or nonexistent customer reviews, a lack of contact information, and websites that look unprofessional or have spelling errors.
Ask Plenty of Questions
Don't be shy about asking questions. A knowledgeable seller should be able to provide details about the jewelry you're interested in. Here are some common questions you can ask.
- What tribe is the artist from?
- What materials were used?
- Can you tell me more about the hallmark?
Asking these questions shows you're an informed buyer and helps you confirm the piece's authenticity. It also enriches your experience by giving you the story behind the jewelry. A passionate dealer will enjoy sharing their knowledge with you.
Take Your Time
A meaningful collection is built over time, not overnight. Enjoy the journey of discovery. Take your time to find pieces that speak to you. Genuine Native American jewelry will always be there, so there's no need to rush into a purchase.
Many people spend years, even decades, carefully curating their collections. Each piece represents a moment of discovery and a connection to the artist. Patience will allow you to make better choices and build a collection that truly reflects your personal style and appreciation for the art form.
Get Ready To Find Your First Piece
With these tips on how to start your Native American jewelry collection, you can find your first few pieces and continue to build from there. If you keep up with it, that collection will slowly expand from a single piece to a modest assortment and eventually to a full collection rich in history and artistry.
Are you ready to find your first piece? At John Henry Co., we have a beautiful collection of Native American turquoise jewelry from skilled Navajo artists. Our collection includes necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. All the pieces are genuine and handmade, and we would be happy to tell you more about any piece you're interested in. Explore our collection today and discover a piece that truly speaks to you—one that carries tradition, artistry, and meaning.