The Mata Ortiz, Acoma Pueblo Connection: Similarities in Design
Written by Palms Trading owner Guy Berger, today’s blog features a fascinating exercise in exploration and comparison of ancient and modern pottery styles and designs between Mata Ortiz and Acoma Pueblo. In his own words: “Paquime’ was an old village in... Read more
The Maze, or Se-eh-ha’s House (Man in the Maze)
Man in the Maze, a recognizable symbol among Native American art, represents challenge and triumph, and is a true symbol of perseverance. After Se-eh-ha returned to his home in the Greasy Mountains, he decided to build a new home, a dwelling that would be like... Read more
The Native American Squash Blossom Necklace
The Native American squash blossom necklace, while a Native American creation, developed slowly and is deeply rooted in non-Native American Indian culture and history. The main part of any squash (blossom) necklace, the crescent shaped pendant called the... Read more
The Owl: A Nuanced Symbol in Native American Cultures
Of the various usages of owl symbolism, Native American religions and their shaman priests have placed upon the bird numerous spiritual associations. To this day, practitioners of Native American spiritual traditions hold that the owl represents vision... Read more
The Pueblo Storyteller
Time-honored Pueblo pottery traditions of working with clay and telling stories have merged into a modern art form: “Storyteller” pottery dolls. The art of making clay effigies is as ancient as the Anasazi peoples, who inhabited the deserts of New Mexico many... Read more
The Snake Dance of the Hopi Indians
The Snake Dance of the Hopi Indians Excerpts from the book by Earle R. Forrest, followed by a personal comment from Palms Trading Company Owner Guy Berger In no other part of the world will you witness a religious ceremony during which the participants dance... Read more
The Tale of the Corn Maiden
A story written by Isleta Pueblo carver Andy Abeita, this piece explores the Tale of the Corn Maiden, and the importance of both the figure and all she represents in Pueblo Native American culture. In Pueblo Indian culture, there have been... Read more
The Traditional Native American Wedding Ceremony
This story about the Traditional Native American Wedding Ceremony was once told to Palms Trading Company owner Guy Berger by Margaret Gutierrez, a famous potter from Santa Clara Pueblo, New Mexico. A week or two before a couple is married by a Catholic priest, the... Read more
The Unique Story of Zuni Jewelry: History & Tradition
For generations, the Zuni people have been known for producing priceless artwork and jewelry steeped in tradition. Their stone-cutting techniques, including needlepoint, petit point, and inlay, have been passed down each generation for hundreds of years. Today, Zuni... Read more
The Value of Turquoise: Determining Quality Through Four Factors
At Palms, we feel it is our privilege and our obligation to stay informed and educated regarding the various facets of our business and the products we sell. We also know it is important to pass this knowledge on to you, our valued customers. As turquoise has gained... Read more