How to Buy Authentic Native American Jewelry

Native American jewelry is more than just adornment. It is a story told in silver, turquoise, and other semi precious stones, a legacy of Native American artistry that has enchanted collectors and enthusiasts for decades. When we seek to buy Native American jewelry, we are not just purchasing a piece of jewelry; we are embracing a rich cultural heritage, a tradition of craftsmanship passed down through generations. But how do we ensure that the piece we hold is truly authentic? Let’s explore the journey of buying authentic Native American jewelry together.

Understanding Native American Jewelry

There are master Navajo silversmiths whose work is celebrated for the intricacy of the designs and vibrant use of turquoise. There are also Hopi silversmiths whose pieces often feature traditional Hopi motifs combined with delicate silver overlay cutouts and representing various aspects of Hopi life, making each item a work of art. Additionally, Zuni craftspeople are known for their ability to work with the smallest pieces of various stones and inlay them into silver to depict beautiful images from their culture. Knowing the story behind the jewelry helps us appreciate its value and recognize authenticity.

Each culture has a signature style which may include:

• Intricate silverwork with detailed stamp patterns

• Vibrant stones carefully selected for color and quality

• Traditional Navajo, Hopi or Zuni symbols such as arrows, feathers, geometric shapes, and Sunfaces

• Handcrafted quality that reflects hours of skilled labor

  
  

When we hold an authentic piece of Native American jewelry, we hold a connection to their culture and history. This connection is what makes authenticity so important.

This pendant was handcrafted by the Coriz family of Kewa Pueblo. Nestoria makes the beads and her sons make the pendants. This one was made by Daniel Coriz.

How to Buy authentic Native American Jewelry with Confidence

Buying authentic Native American jewelry requires a careful eye and a bit of knowledge. Here are some practical steps to help guide you:

1. Research the Artists, Signatures and Hallmarks

Remember that the absence of a signature of Hallmark does not necessarily mean that the piece is any less valuable. Some craftspeople do not sign their work. Older pieces may not have any Hallmark or it may have had one that was scratched in that has now worn off. Look for:

• Sterling Silver or "925" stamped on the back or inside of the piece

• Authentic hallmarks that indicate genuine craftsmanship however there are some hallmarks that are used by dealers rather than individual craftspeople. This is why researching the artists is important.

  
  

2. Examine the Quality of Materials

Authentic Native American jewelry uses high-quality sterling silver and genuine turquoise. Check for:

• Sterling silver marks such as “925”or "sterling"

• Turquoise and other natural stones that have natural matrix patterns and vibrant color

• Smooth, even silverwork without rough edges, gaps in settings or poor soldering

  
  

3. Buy from Trusted Sources

We recommend purchasing from reputable dealers who specialize in Native American art. Tanner Tradition, for example, is committed to preserving and promoting authentic Native American craftsmanship. When browsing for Native American jewelry look for sellers who provide:

• Detailed descriptions and provenance

• Clear photos from multiple angles

• Return policies and authenticity guarantees

  
  

4. Ask Questions and Request Documentation

Don’t hesitate to ask the seller about the piece’s history, materials, and authenticity certificates. Genuine sellers will be happy to share this information.

Spotting Common Signs of Inauthentic Native American Jewelry

Unfortunately, the popularity of Native American jewelry has led to many imitations. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

• Unusually low prices that seem too good to be true

• Poor craftsmanship such as uneven stamping, rough edges, or glued stones,

  • Native American craftspeople set their stones in bezels that are lined with sawdust to help protect the stones so that they don't crack. Typically, glue is not used in authentic pieces.

• Turquoise that looks too uniform or artificial This is potentially indicative of block turquoise, which is an imitation material made from dyed plastic, resin, or compressed powder that contains little to no actual turquoise. 

  
  

If something feels off, trust your instincts and seek a second opinion from experts or collectors.

Close up of fine pieces of Authentic Native American Jewelry from Tanner Tradition in Ruidoso, NM.

Caring for Your Native American Jewelry

Once we have found and purchased an authentic piece, caring for it properly ensures it remains beautiful for years to come.

• Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap; avoid harsh chemicals

• Store separately to prevent scratches, ideally in a soft pouch or lined box

• Avoid exposure to water, perfumes, and lotions that can damage silver and turquoise

• Have it professionally inspected if repairs or polishing are needed

  
  

By treating these pieces with respect, you are honoring the artist’s work and the culture it represents.

Embracing the Story Behind Each Piece

Every piece of Native American jewelry carries a story - of the artist, the culture, and the land. When you wear or collect these treasures, you become part of that story. It is a beautiful way to connect with Native American heritage and support the artisans who keep these traditions alive.

We encourage you to explore the world of authentic Native American jewelry with curiosity and care. Whether you are adding to a collection or finding a meaningful gift, the journey to authenticity enriches the experience.

Celebrate the timeless beauty and cultural significance of Native American jewelry work by choosing genuine pieces that honor their culture.

We hope this guide helps you navigate the path to owning authentic Native American jewelry with confidence and joy. Happy collecting!