Native American culture has always held a curious fascination in American culture but it has only been in the last few decades that it has been able to truly crack into mainstream and able to show itself to the fullest. This has led to the huge market for authentic Indian jewelry and artwork now found for sale all over the world. Perhaps most notable and commonly seen that people are aware of is Native American silver jewelry over other forms.

History of Authentic Indian Jewelry

Authentic Indian jewelry has a long history going back hundreds and even thousands of years. Originally craftsman of authentic Indian jewelry used primarily beads which were handcrafted from stone, especially semi-precious gems, and animal bone. They were often combined with feathers and strung on leather strings or handmade rope. Within the tribe authentic Indian jewelry was a sign of wealth and status, especially pieces made with the stone beads.

Eventually Europeans arrived and changed the look of authentic Indian jewelry forever. They taught many native tribes metallurgy and smithing which allowed them to create authentic Indian jewelry with metals such as silver and gold. Silver was and still is more popular. It is more popular because it was easier to craft with and to to express a greater artistic form through molds and engraving. Authentic Indian jewelry is truly shown to be a work of art so it only makes sense that the artists would choose the better metal for displaying their work.

Around the end of the 19th century, many Native American silversmiths noticed that authentic Indian jewelry was becoming popular among collectors and in fashion. They turned this to their advantage and began crafting authentic Indian jewelry that would appeal outsiders. It brought economic independence to many poorer families which hadn’t been achieved before. This trend for marketing and selling authentic Indian jewelry is stilled used today and many silversmiths pass down their skill and trade by teach it to their children.

In the 21st century, authentic Indian jewelry is very common among Western cowboy culture, especially the women. Cowgirls often wear authentic Indian jewelry as a way of expressing who they are and as a reflection of country life.

Modern day Native Americans also wear it, even manufacturing some pieces of authentic Indian jewelry specifically for sacred ceremonies that are not seen by people who are not part of the tribe. Handcrafted authentic Indian jewelry is beautiful and hard not to admire. It is a trade that has been practiced for centuries and has led to authentic Indian jewelry becoming an international phenomenon.