Origins of Native American jewelry

Native Americans in the Southwestern and Western United States started creating incredible jewelry just from the simple things they found in their day to day lives. They took items such as wood, bones, stones, rocks and shells and transformed them from something small and dull into something beautiful. Today, these pieces are some of the most beautiful works of art in the world, and a new website is shining the spotlight on wholesale Native American jewelry.

Native Americans began making silver jewelry around the 1850s. A Navajo blacksmith by the name of Atsidi Sani is credited with furthering the art of Native American jewelry making. He began using brass and copper to create bracelets and coins, and then went on to make silver Native American necklaces and other jewelry. He also taught others his skills. Around 1880, the Navajo had combined their love of silver and turquoise into their jewelry making.

The timeless appeal of turquoise

One of the most common stones used in Native American jewelry is turquoise. It’s most often set in silver and worn in necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings. The use of turquoise has been around the Southwest since prehistoric times, and the use of turquoise in jewelry is a thousand-year-old tradition. The Anasazi used turquoise and shell to make beaded necklaces, bracelets and earrings as well as to decorate effigies. Using turquoise in Southwestern jewelry is still popular today, not only by people that live in the Southwest, but by people worldwide.

The advent of machine-made jewelry

Around 1900, the Fred Harvey Company began supplying sheet metal and polished turquoise. Eventually, the Harvey Company began making Native American-inspired machine-made jewelry. Most of the pieces were small and sold to tourists; common designs included thunderbirds, lightning bolts, and bows and arrows. It’s not known if Native Americans were actually helping in the jewelry making process.

As the popularity of machine-made pieces grew, silversmiths everywhere began to copy the machine-made jewelry, creating Native American-style necklaces, bracelets and rings that were of a lower quality than authentic, handmade pieces.

After 1900, the tools and technology used to create jewelry improved. As a result of mechanical evolution, the sale of genuine, hand-made Native American jewelry began to suffer, but it’s also why today, authentic handmade Native American jewelry pieces can be worth thousands of dollars.

What to know about buying Native American jewelry

Interested in buying an authentic piece of Native American jewelry? Collecting Native American jewelry, such as necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings, is a fun and interesting hobby, but there are some things to know to help ensure you buy an authentic product at the right price.

First and foremost, you’ll want proof that the piece you’re interested in is authentic, and that it was made by a Native American. In many states, such as New Mexico, it’s illegal to sell jewelry labeled “Indian made” that is not actually made by Native Americans.

Most modern silver jewelry that is made by a Native American will be marked or signed. Ask the jewelry dealer for proof of authenticity on the piece of jewelry you like before you buy. If the dealer can’t give you the certificate, it probably isn’t authentic.

When it comes to turquoise, know the difference between treated and untreated turquoise. Treated turquoise has been coated or dyed for strength and/or color. Some people think that treated turquoise is of lesser quality than untreated. However, treated turquoise stones are generally stronger than those not treated. If you’re a purist, know that untreated turquoise tends to be porous and have imperfections.

From an investment point of view, pieces made between 1870 and 1940 have the most value. These pieces generally increase in value, and some easily sell for tens of thousands of dollars. Of course, taste in jewelry is subjective, so the best advice is to buy what you love and will wear. Native American jewelry is more than beautiful — it often carries with it a rich history and culture. And because of its beauty, it’s an easy way to dress up any outfit.

Where to find Native American jewelry

The Internet is a great place to start, but be sure to do some research. Websites that provide a lot of well written, detailed information, including vintage dates, the maker and origin, prices, dimensions, and multiple images are usually a good indication of a reputable company.

An Internet search for “Native American jewelry” will bring up many websites, but if you’re interested in original antiques, search under “old pawn jewelry,” and look for Native American pieces.

If you’re looking for authentic Native American pieces, be aware that pieces called “Indian style” or “southwestern style” are usually non-Native American Indian made. If you’re more concerned with the look of a piece than its authenticity, it’s fine to buy “old style” pieces, but make sure you don’t pay authentic vintage Native American prices.

If you live in an area with jewelry stores and pawn shops, take some time to visit them, but call ahead first to save time. If you’re willing to travel, the Southwest, such as Santa Fe, N.M., has many stores carrying Native American jewelry. Look for shops that belong to organizations such as the Antique Tribal Art Dealer Association (ATADA), and ask about any shop or website’s authenticity certificates and return policies.

Where to shop for turquoise jewelry?

If you’re looking for a beautiful turquoise jewelry, visit Adina Jewelers by Empire Pawn on eBay. You’ll find amazing fine estate, vintage and antique jewelry at true wholesale prices! Contact us today if you’re looking for something specific.