Silversmithing in the Navajo Culture and Turquoise Bracelets: A brief insight into the centuries-old art form

The Navajo people started making silver jewelry in the 1860s. Atsidi Sani, the popular Native American silversmith is often credited as the first Navajo who learned the trade from the Spaniards who came here in search of silver and gold. Turquoise carries a great significance in the Navajo culture and has a prolonged history. In fact, to the Navajo people, it is more precious than gold or silver. Turquoise and other stones were kept as personal adornment by Southwest Indians. The Navajo people started making turquoise bracelets in the late 1890s. The bracelets were hand-forged from ingot or sand-cast and cruder in the original form. Because of their one-of-a-kind designs and historical value, Native American bracelets have become increasingly popular among Jewelry collectors all over the world.

The abundance of turquoise available in the Southwest made Navajo Silversmiths become masters of cutting, polishing and mounting a wide variety of Turquoise in sterling silver settings. Today, you will find several bright and beautiful colors in handmade turquoise jewelry, from the cleanest blue to the darkest green. The fascination with turquoise has dramatically increased over the period throughout many countries of the world. People are looking for quality, beautiful stones and Navajo beaded bracelets that can let them embrace their love for this centuries-old art form.

If you are also seeking Navajo jewelry or Navajo art-inspired items online, check out websites like Navajo-Artist that are online leaders in Native American jewelry and artifacts. In addition to jewelry items, from these online galleries, you can also buy Navajo style coffee mugs, wallets, coin purses, and more. Love the Navajo art and culture? Bring the beautiful elements of this historic art into your homes and lives!