Native American jewelers create two very general categories, namely, metalwork and beadwork. Prior to Europeans' arrival, native metalwork was quite simple with hammering and etching copper into pendants or earrings and fashioning copper and silver into beads. In the 1800's Pls Navajo, Hopi and Pueblo artists learned techniques from the Spanish, a new style was developed That was the fusion of new techniques with traditional designs.
Native beadwork style consists of fine grinding of turquoise, coral, and shell necklaces heishi smooth beads, the soaking and piecing of Porcupine quills, and the intricate stitching of Thousands of beads together. It is not always easy to spot an item made by an authentic Native American Jeweler. The price, materials, appearance, and the seller's guarantee of authenticity may help Sometimes. Though the make and sell the Indian artisans reasonable souvenir-type items, authentic first-rate Indian jewelry can be very costly. Most jewelers use sterling silver (the most common metal used) complemented with the shell, turquoise, coral, onyx, lapis lazuli, or carnelian.
Native American jewelers deal in hand-crafted American Indian jewelry that has rooted itself in both American history and current fashion. American Indian designs have been produced since prehistoric times. Each piece is high in fashion now for its one of a kind nature, its natural attraction, and elegance. Modern archaeologists found that Indian jewelry styles vary from tribe to tribe.
