Bernyse Chavez is a respected Navajo artist with a gift for working with sterling silver and high-grade natural stones, molding them into exquisitely detailed wearable works of art that are as intricate as they are lovely.
She hand-stamps textures, adds twist wire borders, and implements oxidation, adding richness and depth to each piece. Whether drawing inspiration from “old style” designs or working in her signature contemporary style, she makes all her work feel alive and fresh. She continues the tradition of Navajo silversmithing with pride and creativity.
Meet Bernyse Chavez
Bernyse Chavez was born and raised in To’hajille, New Mexico, a small town west of Albuquerque that is part of the Navajo Nation. She learned silversmithing from her sister, and that hands-on family teaching led to a career that has earned recognition from collectors and galleries across the country.
Her work stands out for its clean, precise finish, reflecting the high personal standard to which she holds herself. She is especially well known for her handmade Navajo Pearl bench beads, detailed stamp work, and use of premium stones such as Kingman and Royston turquoise in her jewelry. She has also collaborated with fellow artists Rose Martin and Murphy Platero on high-end turquoise sets, further showing her ability to produce exceptional work both independently and alongside other talented Navajo artists.
Discover Bernyse Chavez’s Work
Bernyse Chavez’s jewelry combines natural gemstones and sterling silver in a style that reflects Navajo tradition and technique, while showcasing her unique contemporary designs. Browse her collections below and find everything from simple, everyday jewelry to statement pieces you know in your heart were made just for you.
Earrings
There is a lot to love about Bernyse Chavez’s earring designs, and the variety alone makes them worth exploring. Her work incorporates natural stones such as Royston Ribbon Turquoise, Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, White Buffalo, and red coral, all set in sterling silver and ranging from hand-stamped dangles and concho-inspired pieces to simple, understated studs. Each pair is finished with her personal hallmark, hand-stamped into the back of the piece.
Necklaces
Bernyse Chavez has built a strong reputation for her bench-made Navajo Pearl beads, hand-soldered to a clean finish. Her pendant and statement necklace designs (sometimes offered as a set with matching earrings) share the same thoughtfulness. Rare and sought-after turquoise stones such as Kingman, Golden Hill, and South Hill turquoise are set in sterling silver, with hand-stamping and oxidized shadowbox work woven throughout. Whether you prefer understated pieces or bold, attention-grabbing ones, her necklaces have something for every taste.
Rings
If you are looking for something that genuinely turns heads, Bernyse Chavez’s rings are hard to overlook. Natural gemstones like Sonoran Gold, Royston, and Kingman turquoise are central to many of her designs, often placed against a darkened oxidized background that makes each stone’s color stand out beautifully. She often adds details like twist wire borders and hand-stamped details that give every ring its own personality. These are pieces built to be worn, admired, and kept for a very long time.
Shop Bernyse Chavez’s Jewelry at SilverTQ
SilverTQ is excited to bring you a fabulous selection of jewelry by Navajo artist Bernyse Chavez, where sterling silver and natural stones come together in genuinely priceless pieces. From her beautifully detailed earrings and rings to her necklaces and matching sets, every piece in her collection carries the tradition and personal touch that make her work beyond special. Check out her pieces at SilverTQ and discover something that will look beautiful on you, no matter how you choose to wear it.
FAQs
Does each piece include Bernyse Chavez’s hallmark or signature?
SilverTQ takes pride in selling only genuine, handmade Native American jewelry from well-respected artists. Therefore, all of these pieces feature the artist’s hallmark as a personal mark of authenticity.
Can the jewelry be worn daily?
These pieces can be worn every day, but taking them off before any activity that could expose them to direct sunlight, extreme heat, or extreme cold is always a good call. Cleaning and polishing them regularly (even just a quick wipe down) will help them stay in great condition over time.
How should I care for the jewelry?
Harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners are a definite no-go, as they may actually damage the stones and sterling silver over time. For the silver, a soft cloth and silver polish are the safest solutions, while the stones should be cleaned separately with a dry cloth. When you are not wearing your pieces, keeping them in a lined jewelry box or soft pouch will protect them from scratches and other wear.
