Here I will give you some information on Native American, Southwestern & Mexican Silver jewelry ~ the different styles & tribe affiliations, hallmarks, Artist stamps, Sterling stamps, and how to authenticate.
As I am a constant student on this interesting and vast subject, this blog post will start off with just the basic info that I think is important to understand when purchasing and investing in this beautiful craft.
I will be adding to this knowledge base for people who are interested in learning more about the history & culture of Native American & Mexican Silver jewelry.
Many people believe that authentic Artisan made and Native Southwestern jewelry will always have a Sterling stamp & Artists Hallmark or signature. In more recent times this is very often done, but not always. And for very old and Vintage pieces you will find that most is not signed or stamped.
Before the 1930's Native American jewelry was not stamped Sterling or have a Makers Mark at all. In the 1940's & 1950's the main stamps were from the Bell Trading Company. For the most part the Native artists didn't start stamping & using their Hallmarks until the 1950's - 1960's. Since then the Sterling and .925 stamp is used. Still today, not all artists put their personal mark on their pieces.