All About Navajo
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Time to read 4 min
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Time to read 4 min
Our Navajo collection isnât just one of our best-selling rangesâitâs truly a beloved treasure in-house that we keep coming back to time and time again. Thereâs something utterly captivating about the vibrant, luminous turquoises that seem to glow with life, paired with the painstakingly intricate details and enchanting designs that define every single piece of Navajo jewelry. These arenât just beautiful accessories; they are wearable works of art, crafted with passion and steeped in centuries of tradition. What truly sets this collection apartâand makes it so deeply special to us and our customers alikeâis the rich cultural tapestry woven into each piece. Every item carries with it stories and symbols from the Navajo people, reflecting a legacy of craftsmanship, spirituality, and connection to nature. Owning a piece from this collection means more than just adorning yourself with stunning jewelry; it means embracing a history and heritage that speaks through every carefully carved detail and every shade of turquoise. Itâs this powerful blend of beauty, meaning, and tradition that makes our Navajo collection a continual favorite in our lineupâand a must-have for anyone who cherishes jewelry with a soul.
All of our Navajo pieces are meticulously handcrafted by skilled Navajo and Zuni artisansâproud Native American Indian peoples hailing from the Southwestern United States. These artisans bring generations of knowledge, tradition, and artistry to every creation, honouring their cultural heritage with each delicate detail. The Navajo tribe, who refer to themselves as DinĂ©, meaning âChildren of the Holy People,â have called the vast and beautiful southwest their home for thousands of years. It was in the 1800s that they began to develop their distinctive jewellery-making traditions, combining natural materials, expert craftsmanship, and symbolic designs that convey stories and spiritual significance. Today, the Navajo remain the largest federally recognized Native American tribe in the US, with a reservation that spans the iconic Four Corners region, where Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado converge. This deep connection to their land and culture is reflected in every piece within our Navajo collection. Youâll find some of the most intricate and vibrant jewellery here, alive with radiant gemstones and meticulously stamped with the name or hallmark of the Navajo or Zuni artisan who crafted it. These unique marks serve as a personal signature and a testament to the authentic artistry behind each creationâsomething you might have noticed on some of your own treasured Navajo pieces. Together, these elements make each item not just a beautiful accessory but a meaningful expression of cultural pride and artistic legacy.
Navajo jewellery is renowned for its stunning use of turquoise and sterling silver, creating pieces that are bold, striking, and unmistakably unique. The signature look often features large, chunky turquoise stones carefully set within gleaming sterling silver bezels, allowing each jewel to radiate its own distinct charm and character. But the creativity of Navajo artisans doesnât stop thereâmany also incorporate other beautiful gemstones like opal, coral, and lapis lazuli, adding layers of colour and depth that make each piece truly one-of-a-kind. At Indie and Harper, we take great pride in sourcing our Navajo jewellery directly from the tribes and artisans themselves, ensuring authenticity and honouring the meaningful stories woven into every creation. This direct connection means that every item we offer carries the true spirit and craftsmanship of the Navajo and Zuni people, preserving their cultural legacy and supporting their artistic communities. Inspired deeply by the rugged, breathtaking landscapes of the Southwestâits mountains, deserts, and skiesâthe designs reflect a profound relationship with the land and its history. Over generations, Navajo and Zuni jewellers have not only influenced the world of traditional Native American art but have also left an indelible mark on broader textile, fashion, and design industries. Their intricate silverwork, symbolic motifs, and vibrant stones have inspired countless artists and designers around the globe. At Indie and Harper, we feel incredibly privileged to be able to share these extraordinary pieces with youâpieces that carry with them not only exquisite beauty but also a rich cultural heritage and timeless artistry that continues to captivate and inspire.
Navajo (Diné) jewellery is traditionally handcrafted, often in sterling silver, with bold settings that spotlight stones like turquoise and coral. Distinctive techniques such as stamp work, repoussé and heavy bezels set it apart from Zuni or Hopi styles, which often feature intricate inlay or overlay designs.
Yesâwhen itâs purchased ethically from Navajo artists or reputable retailers who pay fair prices and credit the makers. Avoid mass-produced âNative inspiredâ pieces that appropriate designs without supporting Indigenous communities.
Look for: artist hallmarks, sterling or â.925â stamps, high-quality hand-set stones, and slight variations that signal handcrafting. Ask the seller for artist information, certificates of authenticity, or purchase records from Native-owned cooperatives or trusted galleries.
Sterling silver is the foundation, paired with gemstones such as turquoise, coral, spiny oyster, lapis, and onyx. Youâll also see shell, jet, and modern materials, but turquoiseâin many varieties like Kingman or Sleeping Beautyâremains iconic.
Use a soft, dry polishing cloth for silver; avoid harsh dips that can damage stones. Keep turquoise away from chemicals, lotions, and prolonged water exposure. Store pieces separately in soft pouches to prevent scratches.
