Ortega's Gift Shop
History Of
Indian Jewelry
The emergence of Southwest silver jewelry took place
gradually. Although the Navajo and Pueblos had some exposure to
silver working from contact with the Spanish, neither people concentrated
on developing their own art forms until the late 1870's. After
the Navajo returned to their reservation from a five year internment
by the U.S. government at Ft. Sumner, novice silversmiths and
accomplished blacksmiths began to work with silver. The lustrous
jewelry quickly gained prestige as a symbol of status and wealth
among the Navajo. Desire for the silver ornamentation spread and
the pueblo villages of Laguna, Acoma, Hopi, and Zuni soon learned
the craft. By 1915, the Zuni were creating their own distinctive
inlaid jewelry styles while the Navajo people continued to develop
the quintessential Southwest style: heavy squash blossoms (necklaces)
and hefty bracelets, set with chunks of turquoise. In Gallup,
you will find the traditional styles of Native American silversmithing,
each unique and indicative of the artist's tribal heritage. The
shopper will also find many outstanding contemporary pieces that
merge early traditional art with stunning new design concepts.
When shopping for silver, be sure to ask the salesperson or artist
to identify the materials and the origin of the piece.
About The Ortega Tradition
Armand P. Ortega is a very well-known &
respected Indian Trader, the product of four Generations of life
among the Native Americans of the Southwest. His expertise in
the field of Native American arts & crafts stems from his
life long experience, during which he has learned the intricacies
of turquoise, became fluent in Native American languages of the
area & developed a deep understanding & respect for Native
American Culture. These simple beginnings evolved through the
years into a number of Ortega-Owned
Indian Stores and Trading Posts throughout the Southwest.
Pictured Here Is Only A Small
Taste Of What Ortega's
Indian Stores Offer In Native American
Arts & Crafts. All At Wholesale Prices. Open Seven Days A
Week. Stop In, While Staying With Us.
For The Best Section In Town
Located At 2107 W. Hwy 66 Gallup,
NM.
(505)863-3919
Stay At The El Rancho Hotel For An Enjoyable Experience
1-800-543-6351 Within U.S.A.
1-505-863-9311 Outside U.S.A.
Fax # 1-505-722-5917
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Inc. All Rights Reserved
