The Beauty And Tradition Of Native American Jewelry

There is probably no jewelry made that is more easily identified than the classic designs of Native American jewelry. These well made pieces have an element of style that no other designer can duplicate. These can be found in many areas as often, artists travel a circuit displaying their merchandise.

Native American jewelry is much sought after, and can be found on the internet. Be sure to verify that the artist is Native American to get truly authentic pieces. Native American jewelry can also be found at shows that specialize in Native American jewelry and other products.

Tradition

Native American jewelry was being produced centuries ago. The people had developed ways to create jewelry without the benefit of sophisticated tools. The use of shells, copper, silver, turquoise and other distinctive materials that were indigenous to the area were hammered and bent into shape to make jewelry.

The items that were commonly used in Native American jewelry were ones that were found and that they had easy access too. There was also, however, extensive trading with groups, so materials that were common on the coastal areas were traded to tribes further inland. This allowed for beadwork and jewelry design to continue to grow and advance among different tribes.

Native American jewelry that involved beadwork has always been a tradition. Native Americans take great pride in the intricate bead patterns that can be found on clothing. Beads were made from a variety of materials including porcupine quills, shells, wood and bone. Porcupine quill work was a tradition that isn't seen much these days. The porcupine quills were sewn onto material in patterns and the work is very fine and difficult.

With the arrival of the Europeans, the artwork changed as materials changed. Glass beads were introduced and finer tools were used to make more intricate and delicate jewelry. Some of the southwestern tribes are well known for their sterling silver and turquoise jewelry that can still be purchased today.

Native American jewelry today takes traditional designs and incorporates modern techniques; the resulting jewelry is often very original and stylish. Many Native Americans are proud of their history and traditions and work at carrying on the legacy of past generations.

Native American jewelry is very collectable and many seek out artists that have the flair for making it. Artists are known to display their pieces on-line and there are specialty stores, especially in the southwest that carry distinctive Native American jewelry.