Have you recently purchased a piece of Native American jewelry or art and want to know a bit more about its origins? Luckily, there are myriad options for you to choose from. Not only will knowing a bit more about Native American jewelry and art help you make the right choices when it comes to new purchases, but it will also help you learn more about where your pieces come from, check their authenticity and also stay up to date with their value.
Check out some of these helpful tips for learning more about your Native American art!
Books
Many books have been published which are great for newer and experienced collectors alike! If you’re specifically looking for more information on Southwestern Pueblo pottery and jewelry, check out the first and second edition of “Pueblo and Navajo Contemporary Pottery and Directory of Artists” by Guy Berger, owner of Palms Trading Company. Berger is a 2nd generation trader and expert in the field of Native American pottery, jewelry, and art, and these books are the perfect way to learn more about price guides and tips for purchasing Native American pottery. There are also several useful books if you’re looking to research the history behind your current Native American pieces. If your piece has a hallmark stamped on it, consider checking out “Hallmarks of the Southwest” by Barton Wright to learn more about the artisan who created your piece, some tribal history, and where they came from.
Websites
To learn more about what separates authentic Native American art from the knock-off versions, the United States government has some pretty specific regulations in The Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990. It’s important for all people interested in purchasing a piece of Native American art or jewelry to read up on this Act to know exactly what questions to ask to ensure your jewelry is authentic- more information can be found on the government website. Another great source of information is through looking up specific tribal community websites. The rich artistic history of many Native American communities means that artisans are often showcased in the arts and culture section of their affiliated tribal website, and it can be a great way to learn more and check out new Native American artists and craftspeople.
Ask A Trusted Vendor
A final great way to learn more about a piece of Native American jewelry or pottery is to ask a trusted vendor questions. If you’re inquiring about the background or origins of a piece from a reputable company that works closely with local artisans to showcase their work, then they will be well acquainted with the history of each piece they sell.
Native American Jewelry & More
At Palms Trading Company, we make it a priority to know about the history of each piece we have on display, and we also have a wide variety of authentic and beautiful pieces to offer. Contact us today and let us help you find an exquisite new piece to add to your collection!