Earnest Roy Begay is a Navajo silversmith whose reputation speaks through his work. His jewelry is defined by heavy-gauge sterling silver and deep hand-stamped designs that reflect a truly old-school mastery of Navajo silversmithing. Whatever he creates feels less like accessories and more like something worth holding onto for future generations.
Meet the Artist
Born in 1956 on the Navajo Nation in Chilchinbeto, Arizona, Earnest Roy Begay Sr. was raised in a home without electricity or running water. That upbringing shaped him into a person of great discipline and with a strong sense of cultural pride. Despite a family history of silversmithing, it was in 1975, in a class at Monument Valley High School, that he was first drawn to practice metalwork.
After years of working as a coal miner and setting his jewelry practice aside, Earnest Roy Begay began entering his jewelry into regional competitions and went on to win Best in Class at the Gallup Intertribal Indian Ceremonial for five consecutive years. He later returned to Monument Valley High School, this time as a teacher, to pass what he had learned on to younger Navajo students interested in the art. His admiration for “old style” Navajo jewelry, pieces he studied at trading posts as a young man, has always guided his direction as a silversmith.
Earnest’s handmade jewelry is recognized for its thick silver, deep stamp work, and clusters of natural turquoise and coral stones. He stamps designs on the inside of each piece as well, a small and personal detail made just for the person wearing it. Today, he lives in New Mexico with his wife, Readda Begay, a renowned silversmith and lapidist in her own right.
Discover Ernest Roy Begay’s Work
Few artists bring the same amount of dedication to traditional Navajo silversmithing as Ernest Roy Begay does, and it’s clear from his collections that he has invested considerable effort in his work. Take a look at his collections below, and discover what makes his jewelry so highly sought after.
Rings
These rings are made to be noticed. Built from substantial sterling silver and set with natural stones, Ernest Roy Begay adorns each piece with a level of detail you will continue to admire.
Some designs center on a single, striking stone, while others feature several arranged across the band, giving you a range of styles to explore. Raindrop patterns can be found on many pieces, as well as twist wire detail and serrated bezels. These rings are made with longevity in mind, in both construction and aesthetics.
Bracelets
You can feel the difference in these cuffs the moment you put one on, forged from heavy sterling silver with a weight and presence absent from contemporary jewelry design. Traditional geometric patterns are stamped across every surface, including the inside of the band, a detail that shows how seriously Ernest Roy Begay takes his work. Natural turquoise appears throughout the collection as a centerpiece stone, set in hand-cut bezels with twist wire detailing that frames it beautifully. Hand-melted silver raindrops add a textured finish that brings the whole piece together, and gives his bracelets that unmistakable old-style quality he is famous for.
Shop Ernest Roy Begay’s Jewelry at SilverTQ
Ernest Roy Begay is a talented artist whose work embodies a history that you can wear. Rooted in Navajo heritage and influenced by a lifelong passion for his culture, he designs rings and bracelets that turn heads and spark conversation. Visit SilverTQ today to explore his collection and find something to treasure for years to come.
FAQs
Does each piece include Ernest Roy Begay’s hallmark or signature?
Ernest Roy Begay marks all his work with his initials, ERB, which can be found on the interior or back of each piece.
Can this jewelry be worn daily?
These pieces are made to be worn and enjoyed, so feel free to wear them as often as you like. Just remember to take them off before any activity that could cause friction or impact, and make time for regular cleaning and polishing to keep them looking their very best.
How should I care for the jewelry?
Chemicals, soap, and water are best kept away from your pieces entirely, as exposure to any of these can cause damage to both the silver and the stones. A soft, dry cloth is the ideal way to clean the turquoise, while a silver polish and a separate cloth should be used on the metal parts. Storing everything in a soft pouch or jewelry case, away from sunlight, will help protect them between wears.
