Navajo (Diné) Nation & Jewelry

Navajo (Diné) Nation

A Legacy of Silver, Stone & Artistic Innovation

The Navajo people, who call themselves Diné, have a homeland that stretches across present-day Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. For generations, Diné artists have created distinctive forms of weaving, silversmithing, stonework, and other arts that have become an important part of the artistic heritage of the American Southwest.

Navajo silversmithing began developing during the mid-1800s and grew into a distinctive art form of its own. Over generations, Diné artists refined their techniques and developed recognizable styles of silverwork that continue to influence Navajo jewelry today.

Turquoise & Navajo Jewelry

Turquoise has become one of the materials most closely associated with Navajo jewelry. Its striking color pairs naturally with silver and can be found in everything from rings and bracelets to necklaces, earrings, and buckles.

Navajo artists are particularly known for combining carefully selected stones with substantial silverwork. Turquoise may be featured as a single dramatic stone or incorporated into elaborate arrangements, allowing the natural character of each stone to become part of the design.

A Living Artistic Tradition

Navajo jewelry has never remained frozen in one period or style. Generations of artists have built upon earlier techniques while introducing their own ideas, materials, and forms of expression.

Traditional techniques such as hand-stamping, casting, stone setting, and silverwork continue alongside contemporary approaches including intricate inlay, overlay, complex stone arrangements, and bold sculptural designs.

Today, Navajo jewelry remains one of the most recognized artistic traditions of the American Southwest—and, more importantly, a living and evolving art form. Contemporary Diné artists continue to carry generations of knowledge forward while bringing their own creativity and individual vision to each piece.

Navajo (Diné) Nation & Jewelry Jewelry

View all