Native American jewelry, Southwestern Jewelry Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can Native American Jewelry be repaired?
A. Most of the time jewelers will stand behind the work that they have created. Depending on where you purchased your jewelry, you should first ask the company where you originally bought the piece from. Most Native American Jewelry stores stand behind their sales.
Q. How does a traditional Native American Silversmith create a piece of jewelry?
A. Not too many people realize the amount of time and detail it takes to create authentic handmade Native American jewelry. We have a section of our website that explains in detail how the jewelry is made.
Q. What are the various types of Native American jewelry?
A. "Native American Jewelry" comes in many different styles. Each tribe and silversmith is influenced by their culture and history. Blue Sky Turquoise helps you see the difference between the Navajo, Zuni and Hopi Jewelry.
Q. Are there different types of turquoise used in making Native American Jewelry?
A. Turquoise has been mined in many places throughout the world. Clear blue Persian turquoise is thought by many to be among the finest turquoise in the world. Mines in India produce green turquoise. Chinese mines are currently selling a great deal of turquoise to the jewelry industry. Mines in the southwestern US, many family owned, yield turquoise in a variety of colors and qualities. Turquoise is the most commonly used stone in Southwestern Jewelry. To the Navajo, Turquoise or dootlizhii (meaning blue or green), symbolizes prosperity and wealth and was even thought to protect the wearer.
Q. How do I know if products that I buy are authentic and made by genuine Native American artisans?
A. One of the best ways to make sure you are buying authentic Native American Jewelry is to ask for Certificates of Authenticity. Also, ask if the retailer is a member of Indian Arts and Crafts Association (IACA) or any type of Native American Association. The IACA's website is www.iaca.com.
Q. What if my question is not answered here?
A. We try our best to provide accurate updated information on Native American Jewelry. If you can't find the information in our website feel free to contact us and we will try to help you where we can.
Q. How do you take care of turquoise jewelry?
Handle your turquoise jewelry carefully to avoid scratching it. Don't store turquoise with harder gemstones or other materials that might rub against it and cause damage. Keep turquoise away from high heat and chemicals such as oils, perfumes, and household cleaners. Even stabilized turquoise can be affected by a constant bombardment of chemicals. Clean your turquoise in warm, sudsy water and dry it immediately with a soft cloth. Avoid commercial jewelry cleaners.
Q. How do I know if products that I buy are authentic and made by genuine Native American artisans?
A. Whether you're drawn to the beauty of turquoise and silver jewelry or the earth tone colors of Indian pottery, having some knowledge about American Indian arts and crafts can help you get the most for your money. Be aware that some unscrupulous retailers want to take your money in exchange for imitation American Indian arts and crafts.
You can learn more by visiting the FTC's website, or the Indian Arts and Crafts Board and reading the pamphlet entitled, "Buying genuine American Indian arts and crafts."
