Many people contacting me wanting to know more about there piece of jewelry and the hallmark it has on the back. They will send me the initials in hopes I can tell them more about the artist. Unless it is an artist I know, it is difficult to answer their questions. I have many books on the subject, but it takes hours of research and even then, many use the same initials so you can never be sure unless you know the artists work. To do this takes an expert in this area and not just a jewelry expert, but an expert in Native American jewelry and crafts.
Keeping track of all the artists both living and deceased is quite an undertaking. Here are a few places to try. They are experts in this field and much more qualified to answer your questions than I am.
There is a man that specializes in identifying Native American crafts and the craftspeople that make them. He has written several books on the subject. He might be able to assist you. His name is Dr. Gregory Schaaf. He has a web site and he specializes in these type things. You might want to contact him, his web site is:
http://www.indianartbooks.com/index.htmlThere is another expert that has appeared on Antique Road Show as an expert in Native American jewelry and crafts, however, she charges for her services. Her name is Joan Caballero, her web site is:
http://www.collectorsguide.com/sf/a005.html
Good luck with your search, I hope you find the answers you are seeking.
March 31st, 2010
It is that time of year when we want to go swimming. I just want to warn you that the clorine from pools and hot tubs can damage the finish on your lovely sterling silver jewelry. It can also be very harsh on porous gemstones like turquoise. So when swimming you may want to leave your precious sterling silver jewelry at home.
If you should damage your jewelry with chlorine, don’t fret. A visit to your local bench jeweler and he can most likely polish the surface and make it look new again, but any damage to gemstones, isn’t likely to be repairable, do keep that in mind. However, prevention is always the best solution.
March 31st, 2010
