There is something about southwestern jewelry that just captures the eye and imagination of most people. Perhaps, it is the mystique of the old southwest and the Native Americans that brings great attention to southwestern jewelry. Or it could be the craftsmanship and use of native materials such as turquoise and silver. Whatever your purpose may be, native southwestern jewelry continues to be popular.
Vintage southwestern jewelry can be highly sought after pieces. Some of the craftsmanship of silversmiths and blacksmiths from long ago has been lost. Therefore, if you find southwestern silver jewelry with maker’s marks, you have got a real find. Today, you can still get southwestern authentic jewelry; however, it is made with today’s tools and technology rather than the exquisite hand crafting of years past.
That is not to say that today’s southwestern handmade jewelry wouldn’t win high marks. In fact, there are some grand pieces that have been created by some of the top southwestern artists in the country. If you want to invest in some of this southwestern jewelry, you either should head to the authentic southwest areas such as New Mexico or Arizona or find reputable southwestern jewelry suppliers on the internet or in your area.
Metals And Materials Of Southwestern Jewelry
By far, the most popular metal used in southwestern jewelry is silver. Southwestern silver jewelry is extremely popular. When coupled with turquoise, the combination cannot be beat. Southwestern silver turquoise jewelry is striking because of the cool contrasts between the rich blue colors of the stone and the cool color of the silver.
Turquoise in itself is also a popular in southwestern jewelry. Authentic southwestern turquoise jewelry can command a pretty penny or two. And did you know that turquoise does not just come in the traditional blue turquoise color? It can also be found in a coral red color and various shades of red or the turquoise blue. The black striations are what make this stone unique. That is why it is a favorite in southwestern Indian jewelry.
Wholesale southwestern jewelry is perhaps the easiest way to grab a piece of the authentic native southwest, especially if you live in other parts of the world. From southwestern jewelry boxes to earrings to bracelets to bolo ties, you can find some attractive pieces. To ensure that you are getting “authentic” southwestern jewelry pieces, try and order from reputable dealers who are actually located in the American Southwest such as New Mexico, Arizona and even parts of Nevada and Colorado.