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Storing & Cleaning Jewelry, Turquoise Mines & Jewelry Artists
Storing your Jewelry
Sterling silver tarnishes, but you can limit the time and effort spent cleaning your jewelry by following a few simple steps:
- Do not store your silver in humid air (such as in a bathroom) or in direct sunlight. Both humidity and sunlight promotes tarnish.
- After wearing your jewelry, give your pieces a quick wipe down with a polish cloth to remove oils, lotions, and perspiration from your silver before storing.
- Store in simple ziploc bags to keep moisture away from your jewelry while not in use. In very humid climates, you can add an anti-tarnish strip in each bag with the jewelry.
- To prevent scratching and damage to your jewelry (sterling silver is a soft metal) store each piece in a separate bag.
- There are more expensive methods of storing your jewelry such as special bags, pouches, and lined containers just to name a few, but they are not necessary. As long as you follow the above steps, you can use any style of jewelry box or container to store your jewelry.
Cleaning your Jewelry
We only recommend using the following three methods to clean your sterling silver jewelry. Please do not use chemical pastes or polishes. These can leave a residue on your jewelry eventually damaging your sterling silver turning it black, brown, or green.
Don’t have the time or just can’t get your jewelry completely clean?
Bring your jewelry in and let us do the work. Cleaning and buffing fees depend on the size and intricacy of each piece.
Polish Cloth –
For universal use on all sterling silver
A polish cloth is the perfect all purpose sterling silver cleaning tool. The inner white cloth is impregnated with a cleaning chemical that is safe for ALL of your sterling silver jewelry and will turn black with use. It cleans without leaving a harmful residue on your jewelry. The outer blue cloth protects your hands during jewelry cleaning. Once you notice a decline in the effectiveness of the cloth, simply discard and purchase another one. Cloth life span depends on extent of use, but the average cleaning cloth we use in our store lasts over a year with daily consistent use.
Windex & Toothbrush –
For use on intricate sterling silver that is hard to clean with a cloth
*Warning – Avoid saturating porous natural stones and shells. Windex can be absorbed by the stone (such as turquoise) or shell and result in changing the color or dulling the finish.
For a quick brightening and cleaning of your intricate sterling silver pieces, place your jewelry on paper towels or a clean white cloth. Spray an old soft toothbrush with classic blue Windex and lightly brush the jewelry avoiding any porous stones (you can place your finger over small stones to protect them while cleaning). It is not necessary to avoid gemstones or diamonds as they are not porous – gemstones can be cleaned along with the sterling silver. Once finished, dry your jewelry with paper towels or a clean white cloth. Let completely air dry before storing the jewelry.
Tide Bath –
Deep cleaning bath for hard to clean sterling silver jewelry such as chains and beads
*Warning – Do not use on jewelry with stones of any kind or pieces with intentional dark oxidized details. Stones and shells will be ruined and oxidation will be removed.
This bath deep cleans jewelry such as chains, beads, and liquid silver to a high shine. Line a shallow bowl or dish with aluminum foil shiny side up. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of classic powder Tide detergent or Borax to the dish and pour in enough hot water to cover the jewelry you will be cleaning, stirring as you go to combine. Immediately add the jewelry to be cleaned while water is hot. Let the jewelry sit for up to 5 minutes. If needed, you can brush the jewelry with an old soft toothbrush to help remove tarnish or debris before removing from the water mix. You can repeat this process as many times as necessary. Once finished, rinse thoroughly with cold water and dry with paper towels or a clean white cloth. Hang necklaces and let completely air dry before storing the jewelry.
Turquoise Mines
Kingman Turquoise
Kingman turquoise is mined in Kingman, Arizona and is the last commercially producing turquoise mine in the United States. While commercial mining began in the 1880’s and continues today, there is evidence of prehistoric mining with Hohokam hammers being found at the mining site dating back to 600 A.D. The Kingman mine has been owned and operated by the Colbaugh family since the early mining boom and spanning three generations.
Kingman turquoise is known for it’s bright shades of sky blue with intricate webbing and matrix, but can also be found in stunning deep shades of green. Gem quality untreated natural Kingman turquoise is some of the most valuable turquoise available.
Sonoran Gold Turquoise
Sonoran Gold turquoise is mined in Sonora, Mexico near the city Cananea and the Campitos mountain. While the mine has been active since the 1980’s, Sonoran Gold turquoise is relatively new to the market. Unlike other turquoise, Sonoran Gold is not found in veins, but as individual nuggets in clay deposits. The actual turquoise when pulled from the ground is soft, so it is stabilized to make is hard enough to cut, polish, and set.
Not only is Sonoran Gold unique in how it is mined, it is also unique in it’s wide variety of stone colors and marbled matrix. Color varies widely including sky blue, aqua and teal blue, lime green, bright green, and dark forest green. The matrix varies as well including golden brown, dark brown, yellow, and silver iron pyrite.
Jewelry Artists & Designers
Domestic Designer Jewelry Line from Antoinette Cleoni
Non-Native Artist
Founded in 1986 by Antoinette Cleoni in California. Sleek, classic, and enduring jewelry featuring evocative and original designs using a simple elegant framework to enhance the radiance of the gemstones. Her signature look rests in the integration of handcrafted sterling silver hinge work and castings, a gorgeous spectrum of bezel set genuine stone and gemstones, and an array of colorful mother of pearl shell inlay. Hallmarks are “AC”, “Acleoni”, and “aCleoni”
Want more information about the artist herself?
Click Here to go visit Jewelersresourse.com
Navajo
Active 1991 – present
- Tufa (stone ) cast sterling silver inspired by the jewelry of Charles Laloma and modern designs with traditional Navajo influence
- Born in 1970 in Gallup, NM and resides in the Gallup / Fort Wingate, NM area
- Introduced to silversmithing by watching his stepfather, Will Begay, and uncle, Wilford Henry
- Hallmark is “AaronA”
Navajo
Active 1970 – present
- Traditional Navajo designs and unique artistic pieces using heavy gauge sterling silver
- Resides in the southwest highlands of Arizona with his family
- Learned silversmithing by watching his brother and others at Gallup Indian Trading Company when he was young
- Hallmark is “Aaron Toadlena”
Navajo
Active 1987 – present
- Heavy gauge traditional set stone and cluster jewelry featuring intricate stamp work
- Born in 1959 on the Zuni pueblo
- Resides in Albuquerque, NM with his family
- Learned silversmithing from his parents
- Hallmark is “A.JAKE”
Navajo
Active 1998 – present
- Heavy gauge stamped and petroglyph unique designs with high quality genuine stones
- Petroglyph designs began in 2006
- Born in 1969 in Mexican Springs, NM of Zuni and Navajo heritage and resides there with his family
- Learned silversmithing in mid 1990’s from brothers Myron and Brad Panteah
- Hallmark is “Alex Sanchez”
Navajo
- Traditional set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “Alfred Martinez”
Navajo
- Traditional Navajo set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “AN”
Navajo
Active 1988 – present
- Heavy gauge sterling silver jewelry designs with hand cut and set stone inlay
- Born in 1968 and resides in Lupton, AZ
- Learned silversmithing from his father
- Alvin is the older brother artist Bryon Yellowhorse and cousin of the late artist Lynol Yellowhorse
- Hallmark is “Alvin Yellowhorse” and horse stamp
Navajo
- Set stone and sand-cast silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “Y Billah”
Navajo
- Modern and clean set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “A B”
Navajo
Active 1989 – present
- Traditional designs using intricate stamp work and a variety of high quality genuine stones and materials
- Born in 1966 in Gallup, NM
- He, brothers Darrell and Donovan Cadman, and half brothers Gary (now deceased) and Sunshine Reeves all learned silversmithing from Andy’s half brother David Reeves (now deceased)
- All of the brothers’ jewelry share similar characteristics and a common feel
- Members of his extended family include silversmiths Leroy Reeves, Guy Hoskie, Darryl Becenti, Bo Reeves, and nephew Delayne Reeves
- Hallmark is “A. CADMAN”
Navajo
- Traditional set stone ornate sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “A”
Navajo
- Traditional set stone and sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “A. P.”
Navajo
- Hand stamped sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “ALV”
Navajo
Active 1980 – present
- Heavy gauge sterling silver designs featuring intricate deep stamp work and high quality stones
- Learned silversmithing from his grandmother Helen Blackgoat, mother Jennie Blackgoat, and uncle Carson Blackgoat
- His great-grandfather Moses Blackgoat (the first silversmith in the family), and grandfather Ben Blackgoat also a skilled silversmiths
- Learned the shadowbox technique from his aunt Irene Lee
- Hallmark is “BLKGT”
Navajo
Active 1970’s – present
- Traditional Navajo designs featuring genuine turquoise and stones
- Hallmark is “A L”
Navajo
- Traditional Navajo set stone cluster jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “AS”
Navajo
- Traditional Navajo set stone and hand stamped jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “AJ”
Navajo
- Traditional Navajo set stone and intricate revival style sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “BENBEGAY”
Navajo
Active since 1978
- Known for his intricate and ornate hand cut sterling silver Kachina figures, southwestern animals, feathers and geometric design jewelry
- Learned silversmithing from his father, John Ration, as a child
- Born in 1955 on the Canoncito Navajo Reservation
- Hallmark is “BENNIE RATION” with an eagle claw
Navajo
- Known for his intricate hand cut and stamped sterling silver overlay jewelry designs especially storyteller bracelets
- Hallmark is “B B”
Navajo
- Traditional Navajo set stone and heavy gauge sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “B” laying on it’s back
Navajo
- Traditional Navajo set stone and hand stamped jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “B. LEE”
Navajo
- Set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “BB”
Navajo
- Traditional and vintage style Navajo hand stamped and set stone jewelry designs
- Learned silversmithing from his father, the later master silversmith Gary Reeves
- Bo grew up grew up in his father’s workshop and derives his own style from his father
- Bo comes from a huge family of silversmiths including his uncles Andy, Darrell, and Donovan Cadman, and Sunshine and David (now deceased) Reeves
- Additional members of his extended family include silversmiths Leroy Reeves, Guy Hoskie, Darryl Becenti, and Delayne Reeves
- Hallmark is “BoReeves”
Navajo
- Traditional hand stamped sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “B. Morgan”
Navajo
Active since age 11
Formerly Brenda Barbone
- Traditional Navajo designs featuring feathers, leaves, and beading and simple set stone jewelry designs
- Bitter Water Clan of the Navajo nation
- Raised in Smith Lake, NM along with her four brothers and four sisters
- Learned silversmithing from her mother Lorraine Barbone
- Hallmark is “B. Jimenez”
Zuni
Active since 1960’s
- Known for her hand cut and set channel inlay Sunface jewelry designs
- Born on the Zuni pueblo in the 1940’s
- Hallmark is “Burdian Soseeah”
Navajo
- Simple and clean set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “BKF”
Navajo
- Traditional Navajo and cluster jewelry designs featuring hand set polished turquoise nuggets and sterling silver in the same style of her parents
- Learned silversmithing from her parents Henry F. Roanhorse Sr and Louise L. Roanhorse
- Resides in Rock Springs, New Mexico
- Hallmark is “CROANHORSE” arrowhead
Navajo
Active since age 12
- Set stone and heavy gauge sterling silver jewelry
- Lives and works in Crownpoint, NM
- Hallmark is an infinity symbol
Navajo
Active 1970 – present
- Traditional hand rolled and hammered ingot silver jewelry and heavy gauge sterling silver jewelry incorporating fine gem grade turquoise and natural stones
- Born in 1956
- Learned silversmithing from his family and later taught his brothers Terry Martinez, Rick Martinez, and bother-in-law Ernest Begay
- Member of a large family of jewelry artists as the son of Leo Martinez and siblings Leon Martinez, Rick Martinez, Karen Martinez Charlie, Reada Martinez Begay, and Terry Martinez
- Hallmark is “CMTZ” arrowhead
Navajo
- Sterling silver Hopi style hand cut overlay and hand stamped sterling silver designs
- Hallmark is “C S”
Zuni
Active pre-1990 – present
- Hand cut and set stone and sterling silver channel inlay specializing in “fish scale” jewelry designs
- Born in 1967
- Resides on the Zuni pueblo in New Mexico
- Hallmark is “C HALOO” signed in electric pencil
Navajo
Active pre-1969 – present
- Traditional hand stamped and repousse sterling silver jewelry designs
- Resides in Gallup / Black Hat, NM
- Member of the large Blackgoat silversmithing family including grandfather Moses Blackgoat (the first silversmith in the family), parents Helen and Ben Blackgoat, sister Jennie Blackgoat, nephew Arnold Blackgoat, and niece Genevieve Blackgoat
- Hallmark is “CARSON B.”
Zuni
- Traditional set stone petit point & sterling silver jewelry
- Hallmark is “C E”
Jewelry designed and created right here at Castle Gap Jewelry by our artistic staff
Zuni
- Set stone jewelry designs especially crosses
- Learned silversmithing from her mother and father, Lupe and Horace Iule
- Her late father was well known for his crosses and Cecilia continues in this tradition
- Hallmark is “C. Iule”
Navajo
Active since age 15
- Traditional set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Learned silversmithing from his parents
- Hallmark is “Charles Johnson”
Navajo
Active 1980 – present
- Sterling silver overlay, hand stamped, and hollow-ware jewelry designs incorporating fine gem grade turquoise and natural stones
- Makes and uses his own stamps
- Born in 1952
- Resides in Winslow, AZ
- Hallmark is “CJ”
Santo Domingo / Kewa Pueblo
- Hand cut and set stone and shell mosaic inlay jewelry designs
- Born in 1985
- Learned jewelry making from her parents Delbert and Torevia Crespin
- Resides on the Santo Domingo pueblo
- Chaslyn’s uncle, Paul Calabaza was one of the first artists at Santo Domingo to start making a specific pattern of choker necklaces
Navajo
- Known for his intricate sterling silver feather jewelry designs
- Born in 1953
- Resides in Shiprock, NM
- Hallmark is “C”
Zuni
Active since 1990
- Hand cut and set stone and shell jewelry inlay designs
- She is also a talented potter and fetish carver active since the 1980’s
- Learned silversmithing from her mother Tina Haloo Gasper
Zuni
- Traditional hand cut and set stone and shell jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “C D V” written in electric pencil
Navajo
- Bold and deep hand stamped designs in heavy gauge sterling silver featuring high quality stones
- Makes and uses his own family stamps
- Member of the large Willie family of silversmiths
- Eldest son, Lonnie Willie, learned silversmithing at the Albuquerque Indian School in the early 1970’s and in turn taught his parents and members of the family
- Older generation of Willie family jewelry artists include Laura, Melissa, Ronnie, Rudy (and wife Happy Piasso), and Juan Willie
- Younger generation of Willie family jewelry artists include Dakota, Cooper, Tawney (and husband Allen Cruz), and Davana
- Hallmark is “C Willie” both with and without a feather
Navajo
- Handmade sterling silver bead jewelry
- Hallmark is “C H”
Navajo
- Bold and deep hand stamped and textured designs in heavy gauge sterling silver
- Makes and uses her own family stamps
- Member of the large Willie family of silversmiths – her father is Ronnie Willie
- Eldest son, Lonnie Willie, learned silversmithing at the Albuquerque Indian School in the early 1970’s and in turn taught his parents and members of the family
- Older generation of Willie family jewelry artists include Laura, Melissa, Ronnie, Rudy (and wide Happy Piasso), and Juan Willie
- Younger generation of Willie family jewelry artists include Dakota, Cooper, Tawney (and husband Allen Cruz), and Davana
- Hallmark is “DAKOTA T. WILLIE”
Navajo
- Intricate stone and shell inlay designs and set stone sterling silver jewelry
- Hallmark is “D L”
Navajo
- Traditional revival jewelry designs in the style of the 1930’s to 1950’s
Santo Domingo / Kewa Pueblo
Active 1989 – present
- Traditional hand cut and shaped (rolled) heishi and bead jewelry along with hand cut and set stone and shell inlay designs
- Learned jewelry making from his parents, Valentino and Nestoria Coriz
- Daniel has two sons, one of which is continuing the family tradition of jewelry making
Navajo
Active over 40 years
- Both traditional Navajo and unique jewelry designs featuring set stones
- Born in Klagetoh, AZ as the youngest of eight brothers and three sisters
- Resides is Gallup, NM
- Hallmark is “D. Clark”
Navajo
- Contemporary grooved sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “Y”
Navajo
Active 1988 – 2020
- Darryl Becenti passed away in April, 2020. Our heart felt sympathy goes out to his family and friends. A true artist, Darryl leaves behind a legacy of amazing wearable art and creativity. Rest in peace.
- Deep hand stamped Navajo designs and repousse jewelry designs in heavy gauge sterling silver featuring set stones
- Born in Gallup, NM in 1957
- Learned silversmithing in the 1970’s from his brother-in-laws Leroy and David Reeves
- Member of an extended family of silversmiths including Andy, Darrell, and Donovan Cadman, Guy Hoskie, and Gary, Sunshine, David, Bo Reeves, and Delayne Reeves
- Hallmark is “D. Becenti” with an arrow
Navajo
- Traditional Navajo designs incorporating ancient symbolism or set stones
- Hallmark is “D. Skeets”
Navajo
- Traditional Navajo jewelry designs incorporating leaf feather
- Hallmark is “D”
Navajo
- Set stone cluster designs inspired by traditional Zuni cluster work
- Hallmark is “DB”
Navajo
- Heavy gauge hand stamped sterling silver jewelry designs
- Learned silversmithing from his father, master silversmith Sunshine Reeves
- His father and uncles, Andy Cadman, Darrell and Donovan Cadman, and Gary Reeves (now deceased) all learned silversmithing from Andy’s half brother David Reeves (now deceased)
- All family member’s jewelry share similar characteristics and a common feel
- Members of his extended family include silversmiths Leroy Reeves, Guy Hoskie, Darryl Becenti, and Bo Reeves
Santo Domingo / Kewa Pueblo
- Famous for their bold hand cut and set stone and shell inlay necklaces
- Reside and work on the Santo Domingo pueblo with their family
- Delbert and Torevia passed on their skills and talent to their daughter Chaslyn Crespin
- Torevia’s older brother Paul Calabaza was one of the first artists at Santo Domingo to start making a specific pattern of choker necklaces
Navajo
Active 1975 – present
- Heavy gauge ornate sterling silver jewelry designs featuring high grade turquoise and stones
- Born in 1955 in Fort Defiance, AZ and raised in Tohatchi, NM
- Self taught silversmith that began making jewelry right after high school (along with his brother-in-law)
- Delbert taught silversmithing to his nephew Derrick Gordon
- Hallmark is “D. Gordon” and spur
Zuni
- Traditional Zuni jewelry designs in hand cut and set mixed stone and shell inlay
- Hallmark is “D Soseeah” signed by hand in electric pencil
Zuni
- Hand cut and set stone and shell inlay traditional Zuni jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “D L”
Zuni
- Intricate hand cut and set stone and shell inlay traditional Zuni jewelry designs
- Signed “Delwin Gasper” and“Zuni” in electric pencil
Zuni
- Hand cut and set stone and shell inlay jewelry in traditional Zuni designs
- Hallmark is “D C” and “Zuni” written in electric pencil
Zuni
- Hand cut and set stone and shell inlay traditional Zuni sunface jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “FDS”
Navajo
Active 1990 – present
- Ornate hand stamped heavy gauge sterling silver jewelry designs featuring genuine stones
- Born in 1971 in Gallup, NM
- Learned silversmithing from his uncle, Delbert Gordon
- Resides on the Navajo reservation with his wife and five children
- Hallmark is “DERRICK”
Navajo
Active 1964 – present
- Hand stamped traditional Navajo jewelry designs
- Born in 1955
- Learned silversmithing from his father, Dan Platero
- Resides in St. Michaels, AZ
Navajo
Active 1991 – present
- Traditional set stone and hand stamped sterling silver jewelry designs
- Born in 1968 in Gallup, NM
- He, brothers Andy and Darrell Cadman, and half brothers Gary and Sunshine Reeves all learned silversmithing from Donovan’s half brother David Reeves (now deceased)
- All of the brothers’ jewelry share similar characteristics and a common feel
- Members of his extended family include silversmiths Leroy Reeves, Guy Hoskie, Darryl Becenti, Bo Reeves, and Delayne Reeves
- Hallmark is “DONOVAN CADMAN” with a fish
Navajo
- Traditional old style set stone Navajo jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “Donovan Skeet”
Navajo
- Clean set stone and sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “E S”
Navajo
- Known for is hand cut and set smooth and cobble inlay jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “YAZZIE”
Navajo
- Intricate sterling silver jewelry featuring Navajo pictorial and storyteller designs
- Hallmark is “B”
Navajo
- Set stone jewelry designs featuring intricate silverwork and applique designs
- Hallmark is “E S”
Navajo
- Clean hand worked jewelry designs resenbling her parent’s jewelry using sterling silver wire and sheeting
- Creates jewelry alongside her husband Benny
- Born in Gallup, NM in 1957
- Learned silversmithing from her parents, Franklin and Verna Tahe
- Member of the vast Tahe extended family of silversmiths
- Hallmark is “TAHE”
Navajo
- Bold hand stamped and textured jewelry designs especially his unique maze patterns using his own handmade stamps (influenced by his grandfather, Elgin, who did the same)
- His maze designs show a series of coils that represent the symbols of family and clan and are inspired by his interest in the Northern Native Indian art of painting totem poles
- Born in Gallup, NM into a family of silversmiths
- Learned silversmithing by helping his father and grandfather from a young age
- A father of four, he is maintaining his family heritage by teaching his children
- Hallmark is “Elgin Tom”
Navajo
- Set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “E”
Navajo
Active 1970’s – present
- Known for her sterling silver holloware, miniatures, vases, and boxes
- Mother of silversmith Wesley R. Whitman
- Hallmark is “E.M.W.”
Navajo
Active since 1969
- Sterling silver traditional set stone jewelry designs with clean lines and beading
- Born in 1954 in Gallup, NM
- Learned silversmithing from her father, Lee Wylie
- Resides in Spencer Valley, NM
- Hallmark is “E M Linkin”
Navajo
Active over 45 years
- Bold sterling silver and traditional set stone jewelry designs
- Widely know as a master silversmith
- Born in 1943 in the Tsa-ya-toh area on the Navajo reservation
- Learned silversmithing and weaving from her father at a young age
- Resides in Mentmore, NM
- Hallmark is “Ella Peter”
Navajo
Active 1970’s – present
- Traditional sterling silver hand set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “E.WYLIE”
Navajo
- Sterling silver hand set stone jewelry designs
- Resides in Gallup, NM with husband Eugene Balone and their nine children
- Hallmark is “Elouise Kee”
Navajo
- Sterling silver hand set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “Elouise Richards” hand signed in electric pencil
Navajo
- Clean sterling silver and set stone jewelry designs
- Resides in Twin Lakes, NM on the Navajo reservation
- Learned silversmithing from her parents, Emerson Bill and Nora Tahe-Bill
- Served our country in the U.S. Army for 6 years before returning to the reservation and resuming her artistry
- Hallmark is “Elvira Bill”
Navajo
- Clean set stone and sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “E C”
Navajo
- Both contemporary and traditional sterling silver jewelry designs by tufa casting and overlay styles
- Learned silversmithing at age 14 from his mother
- Resides in Gallup, NM
- Hallmark is “R” within an open arrowhead
Navajo
- Traditional sterling silver set stone and cluster jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “E J B”
Navajo
- Hand set stone and sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “Willie”
Navajo
- Hand set stone and sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “E BAHE”
Federico Jimenez Caballero
Mixed Native Mixtec and Spanish decent from Oaxaca, Mexico
Unique sterling silver and set stone jewelry inspired by traditional Oaxacan and Navajo designs. Federico was born in Oaxaca, Mexico in 1941 in a Mixtec Indian community to a Native Mixtec father and Spanish mother. He came to the United States in 1967 to study jewelry making and design in California where he still resides and creates his stunning jewelry designs. In 1970, he traveled to the Southwest with wife, Ellen Belber Jimenez, where fell in love with Native American Indian culture and became inspired by traditional Navajo jewelry designs. Mario Romero, a talented silversmith, has worked under the direction of Federico for many years as his trusted apprentice. Hallmark is the letters “JF” combined into one symbol.
Navajo
Active 1975 – present
- Sterling silver and stone cluster jewelry designs
- Resides in Tuba City, AZ
- Hallmark is “FJ. BEGAY”
Navajo
- Grooved and modern sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “F J”
Navajo
- Set stone and hand stamped sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “F P”
Hopi
- Intricate sterling silver hand cut traditional overlay jewelry and hand cut stone and shell inlay
- Hallmark is “F L”
Navajo
- Sterling silver and set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “F”
Navajo
- Intricate old style heavy gauge sterling silver and set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “F” within a horseshoe
Navajo
Active 1987 – present
- Intricate hand cut sterling silver overlay, three dimensional sterling silver, and hand cast silver jewelry designs
- Born in 1962 in Shiprock, NM
- Introduced to jewelry making by his wife, Rena, and her family in the 1980’s
- Mostly self-taught silversmith
- Hallmark is “F. Charley”
Taos Pueblo
- Traditional hand cut and shaped bead and rolled heishi jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “F.W. ARCHULETA” and/or his circular hallmark
Navajo
- Traditional set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “GP”
Navajo
- Intricate hand stamped and traditional set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “G HALE”
Navajo
- Traditional set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “G”
Navajo
- Traditional set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Born in 1969 in Socorro, NM to silversmiths Raymond and Genevieve Apachito
- Raised in Alamo on the Navajo reservation
- Learned silversmithing from her mother Genevieve
- Hallmark is “Geneva J. A.”
Navajo
- Set stone sterling silver jewelry designs featuring handmade bezels, intricate stamp work, and incorporating early traditional Navajo designs
- Born in 1958 in Crownpoint, nm and raised on the Navajo reservation
- Learned silversmithing from her uncle, Tom Dick Ramone, at the age of 15
- Member of the Towering House Clan
- Has passed on her silversmithing knowledge to her son, Kevin Ramone
- Hallmark is “G. Ramone”
Navajo
- Traditional hand stamped and repousse sterling silver jewelry designs
- Member of the large Blackgoat silversmithing family including mother Jennie Blackgoat, great-grandfather Moses Blackgoat (the first silversmith in the family), grandparents Helen and Ben Blackgoat, uncle Carson Blackgoat, and brother Arnold Blackgoat
Zuni
- Traditional Zuni set stone sterling silver cluster jewelry
- Hallmark is “G. Gasper” signed by hand in electric pencil
Navajo
- Navajo old style jewelry designs featuring set stones and handmade beads
- Hallmark is “G M”
Navajo
- Traditional set stone heavy gauge sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “Gilbert Nez”
Navajo
- Intricate hand cut and set stone and shell micro inlay designs
- Hallmark is “G”
Navajo
- Set stone jewelry designs also sterling silver boxes and ashtrays featuring retro style stamp work
- Learned silversmithing from Harry Morgan, a master silversmith of old-style Navajo jewelry
- Hallmark is “Gilbert Tom”
Zuni
- Specializes in hand carved stone corn maiden designs in addition to set stone
- Hallmark is “G C”
Navajo
Active early 1990’s – present
- Well known for the high quality of his work using heavy gauge sterling silver, fine natural turquoise stones, and deep hand stamped traditional jewelry designs
- Makes and uses many of his own stamps
- Born in 1952 in Fort Defiance, AZ
- Resides in Window Rock, AZ with his family
- Learned silversmithing from his relatives Sunshine Reeves and Andy Cadman
- Married to David Reeves’s sister and they have two sons
- Hallmark is “G STERLING H” with STERLING upside down
Navajo
Active 1994 – present
- Heavy gauge set stone sterling silver jewelry designs featuring intricate stampwork and ornate silverwork
- Born in 1972 in Socorro, NM and raised in Alamo, NM
- Learned silversmithing from her husband, Rudy Willie, in 1994
- Rudy is a member of the vast silversmithing Willie family
- Rudy and Happy work as a husband and wife artistic team usually creating jewelry together
- Rudy Willie sometimes signs his own name to his pieces, but both artists have been known to use the “H. Piasso” stamp
- Hallmark is “H. Piasso”
Navajo
- Set stone sterling silver jewelry featuring clean and simple designs
- Resides and works in New Mexico
- Hallmark is “Harley Jake”
Navajo
- Known for detailed hand stamped sterling silver jewelry designs inspired by traditional Navajo designs
- Hallmarks are “H.JOE” and “HJ”
Navajo
- Hand cut and set stone and shell inlay jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “H. Smith”
Navajo
Active from age 7
- Hand cast sterling silver designs with and without stones inspired by his grandfather’s designs
- Learned silversmithing from his grandfather Charlie Bitsue
- During his educational years, he lived and went to school in Utah and spent summers at home with his family on the Navajo reservation
- Member of the extended silversmithing family including his grandfather, father – Albert Bitsue, Harry Morgan, and Robert Chee
- Hallmarks are “H. Bit’s” and “H B”
Navajo
Active 1970’s – present
- Traditional old-style intricate hand hammered ingot silver heavy gauge jewelry designs with gem quality stones
- A master silversmith, his work is one of the most collectable
- Hallmark is “HHB” with left pointing arrow
Navajo
- Hand stamped heavy gauge sterling silver designs
- Born in 1965
- Resides and works in Gallup, NM
- Hallmark is “HB”
Navajo
- Intricate hand stamped Navajo jewelry designs and contemporary set stone sterling silver designs
- Hallmarks are “HRM” and “H M”
Navajo
Active since 1991
- Intricate heavy gauge sandcast silver, set stone, and hand stamped Navajo jewelry designs
- Most of his pieces are satin finished for an “old pawn” traditional look and feel
- Third generation silversmith who learned silversmithing from his older brother Harry Morgan, now deceased
- Hallmark is a stylized “M”
Navajo
- Contemporary set stone and hand stamped sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “H S”
Navajo
Active 1974 – present
- Heavy gauge hand stamped or cast silver jewelry designs
- Learned silversmithing from his mother, Mary C. Yazzie
- Married and father of seven children
- Hallmark is “HS”
Santo Domingo / Kewa Pueblo
- Traditional hand cut and shaped stone and shell bead necklaces and earrings
Navajo
Active since 1950’s
- Sterling silver sandcast, holloware, and contempoary set stone jewelry designs
- Lives and works in Steamboat Springs, AZ
- Member of a large silversmithing family including her husband Ivan Kee, daughter Mildred Parkhurst, and family members Edith Kee, Theresa Kee, and Ivan Kee Jr.
- Hallmarks are “I K” and “K”
Navajo
- Set stone and cluster sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “JS”
Navajo
- Set stone and heavy gauge sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “KING” and magic lamp
Navajo
- Ornate sterling silver and set stone cluster jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “J. Wilson” signed by hand in electric pencil
Navajo
- Sterling silver hand stamped pill boxes, holloware, and intricate figurines
- Hallmark is “Jeffrey Castillo”
Navajo
- Set stone and stone cluster sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “J J J”
Navajo
- Known for his heavy gauge handmade sterling silver bead necklaces
- Self-taught silversmith making jewelry since age 18
- Hallmark is “J Nelson”
Navajo
- Traditional hand stamped and repousse sterling silver jewelry designs
- Member of the large Blackgoat silversmithing family including grandfather Moses Blackgoat (the first silversmith in the family), parents Helen and Ben Blackgoat, and brother Carson Blackgoat
- Jennie, along with her mother and brother, taught her son Arnold Blackgoat and daughter Genevieve Blackgoat starting a fourth generation of silversmiths
Navajo
- Traditional Navajo set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “J DRAPER”
Zuni
- Hand cut stone, shell, and coral channel inlay sterling silver jewelry designs
- Born in 1963 as the oldest of seven siblings
- Learned the art of jewelry making from her mother, Tina Haloo, in the family style created by Tina’s brother, the late Elmer Chavez
- Resides and works in Zuni
- Hallmark is a combined “JP”
Navajo
- Set stone and stamped sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “JS”
Santo Domingo / Kewa Pueblo
- Traditional hand cut and shaped stone and shell bead necklaces and earrings
Non-Native / Anglo
Active since 1980’s
- Known for intricate handmade sterling silver insect designs, he also creates pieces inspired by traditional Navajo hand stamped and set stone designs
- Raised on the Navajo Nation near Gallup, NM, he is genuinely rooted in Native American culture
- Now resides and works in the San Antonio, TX
- Hallmark is “E” within a stylized spider
Navajo
- Intricate hand stamped sterling silver feather jewelry designs
- Each line is stamped one at a time and the edges are filed by hand for realistic feather designs
- Born in near Cuba, NM in 1951
- Resides in the Albuquerque, NM area
- Learned silversmithing from his brothers, Ted and Harvey Mace
- Hallmark is “Jm”
Navajo
- Intricate hand stamped and cut sterling silver realistic feather jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “JP”
Navajo
Active 1970’s – present
- Heavy gauge traditional set stone and hand stamped sterling silver jewelry designs
- Born in Winslow, AZ along with 2 brother and 2 sisters
- Moved to Albuquerque, NM when young where he learned silversmithing from a good friend in high school
- Hallmark is “J NELSON”
Zuni
Active pre-1974 – present
- Traditional intricate hand cut and set stone and shell inlay Sunface sterling silver jewelry designs
- Jose and Dora are a husband and wife artist team
- Hallmark is “J D Massie” signed in electric pencil
Navajo
- Set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “J G”
Navajo
- Traditional ornate set stone sterling silver jewelry designs featuring handmade curls, raindrops, leaves, and more
- Hallmark is “J. ETSITTY”
Navajo
- Ornate hand stamped and set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “June Delgarito”
Navajo
- Set stone sterling silver traditional Navajo cluster jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “JW”
Navajo
- Traditional set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “J. Tso”
Navajo
- Known for intricate sterling silver hand cut heavy gauge overlay designs carrying on the family legacy of her husband Steven Begay (now deceased)
- Also creates heavy gauge sterling silver high quality set stone jewelry
- Learned silversmithing from her husband Steven Begay
- Hallmark is “K B”
Navajo
Active 1974 – present
- Intricate sterling silver and set stone jewelry designs
- Born in Church Rock, NM in 1958
- Resides in the Church Rock, NM with husband Juan Chavez and works out of Gallup, NM
- Hallmark is “Kathleen C” and “Kathleen Chavez”
Navajo
- Ornate traditional Navajo sterling silver and set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “K”
Navajo
- Ornate traditional Navajo sterling silver and set stone jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “J” with crossed arrows
Navajo
- Hand poured sand-cast and set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “K Billah”
Navajo
- Set stone sterling silver jewelry designs featuring handmade bezels, intricate stamp work, and incorporating early traditional Navajo designs
- Born in 1958 in Crownpoint, NM and raised on the Navajo reservation
- Learned silversmithing from his mother, Geneva Ramone
- Member of the Towering House Clan
- Hallmark is “Kevin Ramone”
Castle Gap Jewelry’s very own on site designer
Non-Native Artist
Turtle Treasures is a genuine stone, shell, and gemstone beaded jewelry line designed and created on site at Castle Gap Jewelry by our very own Laura Thompsen.
Born in Roswell, New Mexico, Laura traveled much growing up as an Air Force brat, but always came back to her Southwest roots. She has a deep love of Native American jewelry and began creating her own beaded necklaces to compliment her favorite handmade Navajo and Santo Domingo pieces. Customers of Castle Gap Jewelry continuously requested necklaces similar to Laura’s, so she started designing for the store and our customers. The name Turtle Treasures derives from Laura’s love of turtle. Hallmark is a sterling silver turtle.
Navajo
- Ornate sterling silver and set stone traditional Navajo jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “L” with a half moon
Navajo
Active 1984 – present
- Ornate sterling silver and set stone Navajo jewelry designs especially cluster pieces
- Born in 1956 in Crownpoint, NM
- Creates alongside her husband Archie Archie Ganadonegro working as a team
- Hallmarks are “L. Ganado” (older pieces) and “La” with a rose (newer pieces)
Zuni
- Hand cut stone and sterling silver channel inlay heavy gauge sterling silver bold jewelry designs
- Learned silversmithing from his brother-in-law Johnny Coonsis
- Hallmark is “LORETTO” with large L and Ts and smaller Os, R, and E
Navajo
- Larry Moses Yazzie specializes in set stone and sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “L M Y”
Navajo
- Set stone and sterling silver jewelry designs (he also works in gold, but we only carry sterling silver)
- Born in 1960 in Lukachukai, AZ on the Navajo Reservation
- Introduced to silversmithing by watching his grandfather, Joe Lee, as a child
- At school he took classes in silversmithing blostering his knowledge and technique
- He inherited his grandfather’s tools later in life
- Hallmark is “LARSON L. LEE”
Zuni
- Intricate hand cut stone, shell, and coral inlay sterling silver jewelry designs
- Jewelry is signed by hand “Leander & Lisa Othole” and “Zuni N.M.” using and electric pencil
Navajo
- Ornate hand stamped and heavy gauge sterling silver jewelry designs blending the traditional and modern
- Hallmark is “L.Tahe”
Navajo
- Set stone and sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “Lee Sandoval“
Navajo
- Specializes in intricate sterling silver feather jewelry designs featuring fine line stampwork
- Born in 1954
- A self taught silversmith, she last name Platero actually means “silversmith”
- She taught her son, Murphy Platero, the art of silversmithing
- Hallmark is “LENA PLATERO”
Navajo
- Ornate hand stamped and set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “LC”
Navajo
- Traditional set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “LFK”
Navajo
Active 1980’s – present
- Specializes in silver and gold ingot, traditional set stone, and hand rolled silver jewelry designs
- Born in the 1960’s, he is both a silversmith and goldsmith
- Member of a large family of jewelry artists as the son of Leo Martinez and siblings Calvin Martinez, Rick Martinez, Karen Martinez Charlie, Reada Martinez Begay, and Terry Martinez
- Hallmark is “Leon M.T.Z.”
Navajo
Active since 1975
- Creates traditional and ornate set stone jewelry designs as well as hand stamped pieces
- Learned silversmithing from his father, Tom Chee
- Resides near Vanderwagon, NM
- Hallmarks are “LTC” and “L. T. CHEE”
Navajo
- Both channel inlay and set stone sterling silver overlay jewelry designs many times featuring traditional images and figures
- Lives and works in Gallup, NM
- Hallmark is a stacked “LJ”
Navajo
- Heavy gauge traditional Navajo jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “MALONEY”
Navajo
Active 1980’s – present
- Specializes in heavy gauge detailed chisel and overlay designs with set stones
- Born in Keams Canyon, AZ in 1956
- Learned silversmithing from his wife, Marian, who comes from a family of silversmiths
- He was also mentored by artist Gibson Nez and treated like a brother even though they were not related
- Leonard’s brother, Jonathan Nez, is also and accomplished silversmith
- Since first competing in 1993, he has consistently won awards at some of the most prestigious shows and even has a piece on permanent display in the Smithsonian.
- Hallmark is “LEONARD NEZ”
Navajo
- Ornate traditional and set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “L. SPENCER”
Navajo
Active 1992 – present
- Set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Born in 1978 in Gallup, NM
- A self taught artist, he began at the age of fourteen
- Hallmark is “Leslie Nez”
Navajo
- Intricate stone and shell traditional and pictorial inlay jewelry designs, handmade sterling silver beads, and silver tufa cast designs
- Learned silversmithing from his aunt who specialized in sterling silver beads
- After high school, he learned the art of inlay by watching artists such as Ervin Tsosie, Wilbert Manning, and Wilson Manning while working for the Nugget Gallery shop for 10 years
- He was also mentored in silversmithing by Herman Hoskie while working at the shop
- In 2009 he started working in Aaron Anderson’s shop from whom he learned the art of tufa casting
- Lester has collaborated with Melvin Francis and many other award winning artists during his career
- Hallmark is “Lester James”
Navajo
Active since 1985
- Simple sterling silver set stone and ornate set stone cluster jewelry
- Learned silversmithing from her father
- Resides in New Mexico
- Hallmarks are “L Y”, “Y” and “L. YAZZIE”
Navajo
- Ornate set stone sterling silver jewelry
- Hallmark is “LC”
Navajo
- Intricate horse, pueblo, and storyteller scene sterling silver overlay jewelry designs
- Lloyd and brother Floyd Becenti created jewelry together until Floyd’s passing. Lloyd continues creating pieces their jewelry.
- Hallmark is “II BCT”
Zuni
- Intricate stamped sterling silver and stone inlay jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “L S”
Navajo
Active 1970 -present
- Signature sterling silver jewelry featuring Hopi style designs and stone channel inlay
- Born in 1958 in Denver, CO
- Hallmark is “Lonn Parker” “Originals” with a “U. S. A.” feather stamp
Navajo
Active 1970’s -present
- High quality set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- As the eldest son, he learned silversmithing at the Albuquerque Indian School in the early 1970’s and in turn taught his parents, Andy and May Willie, and his siblings
- Makes and uses his own family stamps
- Lonnie personally taught his daughter Tawney and her husband Allen Cruz and they are carrying on his legacy
- Older generation of Willie family jewelry artists include Laura, Melissa, Ronnie, Rudy (and wife Happy Piasso), and Juan Willie
- Younger generation of Willie family jewelry artists include Dakota, Cooper, Tawney (and husband Allen Cruz), and Davana
- Hallmark is “Lonnie Willie”
Navajo
- Ornate traditional Navajo set stone and sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “B”
Navajo
- Set stone and shell sterling silver traditional Navajo jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “LY”
Santo Domingo / Kewa Pueblo
- Specializes in hand rolled turquoise, stone, and shell heishi and slab cut jewelry
- He lives and works on the Santo Domingo (Kewa) Pueblo
- Active for over 50 years
Santo Domingo / Kewa Pueblo
- Specializes in hand cut turquoise, stone, and shell mosaic inlay jewelry designs
Navajo
- Set stone and sterling silver jewelry including her family’s famous shadowbox designs
- Hallmark is “L G” within an open four leaf clover
Navajo
- Intricate set stone handmade sterling silver jewelry designs
- Third generation silversmith who learned from his father Joe Piaso, Jr.
- After attending high school and college in Arizona earning a degree in accounting, he returned to Albuquerque to learn silversmithing from his father
- He lives and works in Abuquerque, NM
- Hallmark is “L P”
Zuni
- Hand cut and set “fish-scale” stone inlay sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hand signs jewelry “L Johnson” and “Zuni NM” in electric pencil
Navajo
- Ornate hand stamped sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “L”
Navajo
- Set stone and hand stamped sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “Marcella James”
Navajo
- Handmade stamped sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “M K”
Navajo
- Handmade stamped sterling silver bead jewelry
- Active silversmith since her teenage years, she is from the Folding Arms Clan
- The middle child of 13 children to silversmiths Chee and Elise Yazzie
- Siblings including Mary Yazzie Lincoln, Lee Yazzie, and Raymond Yazzie are also accomplished silversmiths
- Currently resides in Gallup, NM
- Hallmark is “Marie”
Navajo
- Specializes in burnished sterling silver “Navajo Pearl” jewelry
- Bead are dipped in a chemical for dark oxidation then the centers are brushed by hand with steel wool for a satin finish
- Lives and works near Albuquerque, NM
Navajo
- Set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “M L Perry”
Navajo
Active since age 13
- Set stone and hand stamped sterling silver jewelry designs mixing both traditional and modern styles
- Lives and works in Gallup, NM
- Hallmark is “M. SPENCER”
Santo Domingo / Kewa Pueblo
- Traditional hand cut and shaped (rolled) shell and stone bead jewelry and intricate hand cut mosaic inlay jewelry
- Born into the Corn clan in 1936
- Lives and works on the Kewa – Santo Domingo Pueblo
- Mary was an innovator in the 1950’s by creating shell mosaic inlay pieces
Santo Domingo / Kewa Pueblo
- Hand cut and shaped shell and stone mosaic inlay jewelry
- Learned from her parents Frank and Anita Coriz
- Lives and works on the Kewa – Santo Domingo Pueblo with her husband, silversmith Lorenzo Tafoya
Navajo
- Set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “MB”
Non-Native Artist
- Hand carved stone and shell fetish necklaces
Navajo
- Traditional ornate set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “M.TSOSIE”
Navajo
- Traditional ornate set stone sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “MAX. C”
Zuni
- Traditional hand cut and set stone and shell inlay sterling silver sunface jewelry
Navajo
- Set stone stamped and beaded sterling silver cluster jewelry
- Hallmark is “M. Chee”
Navajo
- A wide variety of contemporary jewelry styles including custom sterling silver appliqué, hand cut stone inlay, intricate stampwork, set stone, and beaded jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “FRANCIS”
Navajo
- Ornate set stone and hand cut stone inlay sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “MERLS HOUSE”
Navajo
- Traditional Navajo sterling silver jewelry designs featuring deep stampwork and set stones
- Michael and Rosita are a husband and wife team
- Michael makes and uses his own personal stamps by hand
- He is Navajo and part Apache raised on the Navajo reservation in Pruitt, NM
- Hallmarks are “M&R Calladitto” and “MC”, both in use from 1970 to present
Navajo
- Handmade high polish and burnished “Navajo pearl” sterling silver bead jewelry
- Born in 1971 in Gallup, NM into a family of talented silversmiths including Lee and Raymond Yazzie
- Learned jewelry making from her grandmother Elise Yazzie and aunts Shirley Johnson, Lola Daw, and Mary Marie Lincoln (Marie Yazzie)
- Hallmark is “MJ”
Navajo and Zuni
(Mike) Active since 1965
- A wide variety of sterling silver jewelry including traditional cluster, ornate set stone, and sandcast designs
- Mike and Evelyn are a husband and wife team working together
- Mike is Navajo and Evelyn is Zuni
Navajo
Active since 1970’s
- Traditional sterling silver and set stone stamped jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “M Thomas Jr”
Navajo
- Set stone modern and ornate traditional sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “M”
Navajo
- High polish sterling silver handmade bead and blossom jewelry and baby rattles featuring hand stamped designs
- Hallmarks are “Ms” (old) and “MS” (current)
Navajo
- Specializes in modern rainwater and beaded raindrop sterling silver jewelry designs in addition to intricately hand stamped pieces
- Learned the art of silversmithing from his mother, Lena Platero
- Born in Crown Point, NM, he now resides and works in Gallup, NM
- Hallmark is “M P”
Navajo
- Set stone and hand cut and filed sterling silver jewelry designs
- Hallmark is “N J”
Watch the video below for a behind the scenes walk through the creation of Supersmith jewelry
Founded in 1997 by cousins David Rosales and John Delgado
Designed by David Rosales and daughter Sheree, Supersmith jewelry is handcrafted in Gallup, New Mexico by their in house group of extremely talented Navajo and Zuni artists including Charles Willie, Tim Charley, and Peterson Chee.
The Supersmith Collection, also known as David Rosales Designs, specializes in superior quality Native American hand cut stone inlay jewelry. Nationally renowned designer and co-founder, David Rosales, is one of the finest contemporary southwest designers in the world today.
Born and raised in Gallup, NM, David has been a part of the Native American community all of his life. He started working and learning this trade in 1984. After gaining knowledge of the business over the years, he decided to start his own endeavor. In 1997, David, along with his cousin John Delgado, partnered to become Supersmith Inc. In 2016 David’s daughter, Sheree, moved back home with her family and began working at Supersmith. After growing up in the business, it was a smooth transition for Sheree and she now assists in jewelry creation, design, and spearheads Supersmith’s media relations and advertising.