Sterling Silver Pendants by Norman Woody

At Black Arrow Native American Jewelry and Art, we are proud to feature a diverse collection of works from accomplished Native American artists who share a deep connection to their heritage and craft. Our "Other Artists" page highlights creators who carry forward the rich traditions of their ancestors while embracing the evolution of contemporary design.

These artisans have honed their skills through generations of knowledge passed down from family members, with many starting their journey at an early age. Rooted in a legacy of silversmithing, bead-making, and intricate stonework, their creations reflect a harmonious blend of traditional techniques and modern innovations. From sand casting and hand-pulled wires to the creation of unique squash blossoms and inlaid designs, these artists showcase a dedication to detail and craftsmanship that resonates in each piece.

United by their shared passion for storytelling through art, these talented individuals draw inspiration from their cultural histories and personal experiences. Whether working alongside family members or self-taught through years of practice, they bring their creativity to life with exceptional artistry and precision. Their works often feature premium materials such as turquoise, coral, jade, and sterling silver, resulting in timeless pieces that celebrate the beauty of Native American culture.

Explore this collection to discover jewelry and art created by award-winning silversmiths and rising talents, each bringing their unique voice to the vibrant tradition of Native American craftsmanship. Through their work, these artists honor their ancestors while inspiring future generations, making each creation not just a piece of art but a piece of history.

Sterling Silver in Native American Jewelry

Sterling silver has been a cornerstone of Native American jewelry-making for over a century. Introduced through trade and colonial contact in the late 1800s, silver quickly became a favored material among Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi artisans. Navajo silversmiths were among the first to adopt its use, learning techniques from Mexican metalsmiths and blending them with their own cultural motifs to create bold, handcrafted jewelry that remains iconic today.

Sterling silver is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This composition is denoted by the ".925" stamp found on authentic pieces, ensuring durability while retaining the precious metal’s brilliance and softness for hand-tooling.

Most silver used today is mined in countries like Mexico, Peru, China, and the United States (notably Arizona and Nevada). Native artists often work with American-mined silver for its cultural and geographical ties to the Southwest.

Care Tips:

• To maintain a bright, polished finish, gently clean sterling silver with a soft cloth or use a designated silver cleaning cloth to remove tarnish.

• To preserve the natural oxidation or patina, which many collectors cherish for its depth and character, simply wear the jewelry regularly and avoid over-cleaning. The patina develops naturally over time and enhances the handmade detail and stamping of each piece.

Whether kept polished or allowed to age gracefully, sterling silver serves as both canvas and frame for the stunning stones and stories embedded in Native American jewelry.