The Best Indian Bridal Jewelry

Indian Jewelry originates primarily from the Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and Pueblo peoples; the jewelry from different tribes is very similar because the tribes use most of the same materials. Popular materials include sterling silver, copper, turquoise, coral, beads, shells, ivory, and amber, all of which create beautiful, artistic representations of the natural world and exemplify Native American craftsmanship. In an American Indian jewelry store you might find a Navajo bear claw pendant or a bolo tie with a cow skull or a sterling silver bracelet with exquisite turquoise snakes circling the band. Other popular features are eagles, wolves, and horses, as well as flowers, trees, and water.

Many of the patterns and images they use are highly symbolical, such as feathers showing honor, the owl representing wisdom, or the turtle meaning long life. This is similar to the way the Biblical writers often recognized natural features in the world as metaphors for the spiritual life, for example: “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon” (Psalm 92:12). Southwest Indian jewelry makers use a vast array of natural symbols to create pieces with meanings that go far beyond silver and topaz. A popular example is the squash blossom necklace, which always features a hanging crescent and can be found in a wide range of colors, stones, and styles. Another popular item is the Concho belt or belt buckle, usually consisting of stones set in silver. Other standard items include bone chokers, amber pendants, and sterling silver hair clips.

These ornaments make lovely gifts for family members and friends, with options for men and women of almost any taste and personality. Authentic hand made jewelry tends to be very expensive, but with a little searching a shopper can find high-quality items for reasonable prices and will be satisfied to know that her new accessories are not only fashionable but also meaningful works of art. Furthermore, she will have the opportunity to support artisans, enabling them to continue tribal crafts and honor their heritage. Buyers wishing to honor such artisans should consider purchasing products from sellers who support reservation projects such as those which encourage Native American children to further their educations, provide mentorship programs, and seek to better educational opportunities for children who live on reservations. Some American Indian jewelry stores exist with similar missions in mind, and can be found with a little online research. Also, buyers who are interested in antique or “old pawn” jewelry should consider giving more support to contemporary artisans, as antique items were often obtained in ways unfriendly to various tribal members. Antique items were frequently stolen or simply sold by Native Americans in financial difficulty, who sacrificed valuable cultural artifacts in order to survive Even children would find joy in Native American ornaments, loving a beaded bracelet or a necklace with a bear claw.

Because they are hand-made, no two items are the same, and buyers have the privilege of wearing jewelry crafted with loving attention and a long history of cultural significance. Sometimes extravagant and gorgeous sometimes delicate and humble the chiseled beauties are great pieces of art evoking the true spirit of India. With the approach of the modern age the Indian jewelry has undergone certain changes but the jewelry market is raging with demands for both ethnic and contemporary.

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