Native americaN jewelry

Native American jewelry is known for its handmade designs in sterling silver, often set with turquoise, coral, and other local gems.

Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi are the three main tribes responsible for producing some of the most beautiful, creative and exciting sterling silver jewelry in American history.

Squash blossoms, feathers, arrows, animals, and other symbols are found on Southwestern jewelry pieces.​
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​​Scroll down for examples of jewelry from different Native American tribes.

Navajo jewelry is known for large, chunky gems bezel-set in sterling silver.  Squash blossom necklaces are examples of traditional Navajo jewelry.

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Zuni jewelry is known for its intricate stonework designs.  Zunis used several different techniques including inlay, clusterwork, needlepoint and petit point.

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Hopi jewelry differs from both Navajo and Zuni jewelry due to its absence of stonework.  Hopi jewelry used Native American symbolism in sterling silver, often through a process known as "overlay".

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All photos courtesy of Scott Papper, GIA GG, AJP, CMA (NAJA)