Jewelry styles vary in American Indian tribes, but the differences are less noticeable than with other arts and crafts. The Native American jewelry and the materials used to make them have been major trade objects since before the arrival of Europeans in America. The traditions of Native American jewelry making remained strong even after colonization. The Native American jewelry makers started incorporating modern materials and techniques like glass beads and advanced metal working techniques in their crafts.
Native American jewelry can be divided into two categories: metal work and beadwork. Earlier metal work consisted of hammering and etching copper into pendants or earrings. In the 1800's the pueblo artists learned silversmithing from the Spanish and Native American jewelry flourished. The blending of new techniques with conventional designs developed overlay bracelets and inlay rings. Native beadwork advanced into fine grinding of turquoise, coral and shell beads into smooth heishi necklaces. The art of porcupine quillwork in Native American jewelry had nearly died out, but recently some young artists have taken a renewed interest in it.
The tribes of Navajo, Hopi, Zuni and other Pueblo artisans have the most impressive tradition of Native American jewelry making. They work silver and semi precious stones into unique inlay and overlay designs while making Native American jewelry. Southwestern Native American jewelry is a strong tradition that is alive even today. The artwork of southwestern Native American jewelry is prized both tribally and internationally even today. Antique Native American jewelry which had been pawned by or stolen from Indians and never reclaimed is known as “old pawn” or “dead pawn”. It is a booming trade among collectors of Native American jewelry. There are many websites selling authentic Native American jewelry that can be bought online.
For further information and details on Native American jewelry visit our website India Handicraft Store.
