How do you authenticate Native American jewelry?

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A genuine piece will have no wavering lines or lopsided designs, well-cut stones that are uniform in size, and no visible glue between the metal and stone. Also be on the lookout for sterling silver versus silver-plated jewelry. A quick way to tell the difference is to hold a small magnet to the piece.

Is Native American jewelry marked Sterling?

Native American silversmiths usually stamp their Sterling Silver jewelry with a stamp that says Sterling, IF the item is large enough to have room for the full word. If it is stamped .

Is Native American jewelry stamped 925?

But in general, Native American artists began using the STERLING stamp in the 1950s and 1960s. Since then, the STERLING or Sterling or 925 stamps are quite common as are artists’ hallmarks.

How do I identify old pawn jewelry?

Authentic Old Pawn jewelry will have a natural gray patina, indicating age. It takes decades for the patina to develop and may appear grayer in dry climates like the southwest. Humidity will add a darker, blacker patina. Patina typically isn’t buffed off in order to preserve its history and value.

What does old pawn mean in Native American jewelry?

“Pawn” jewelry is a term used within the Native American dealer community and refers to old Indian jewelry that was traded for credit or goods. Old pawn jewelry was often Navajo made. You can still get pieces that really are “old pawn,” meaning they still have the original pawn ticket attached.

Does Indian silver have a Hallmark?

Lucknow silversmiths rarely sign their silver pieces in the Western way, with names or initials, but each workshop bears an unique figural hallmark – often a stylised flower or animal – engraved on the underside.

What is Native American jewelry called?

Native American jewelry refers to items of personal adornment, whether for personal use, sale or as art; examples of which include necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings and pins, as well as ketohs, wampum, and labrets, made by one of the Indigenous peoples of the United States.

Why do Navajos wear turquoise?

To the Navajo tribe, the color turquoise represents happiness, luck, and health. Turquoise is also the most common component of Native American Jewelry. The Navajo were talented in molding turquoise into beads, and making Heishi necklaces.

What are Traditional jewelry of the Navajos?

The earliest works were concho belts, bracelets, and necklaces, but eventually expanded to a full range of jewelry. Today, some of the most popular features of Navajo Indian jewelry include silver, naja pendants, squash blossom necklaces, and concho belts.