Robert W. Begay

Robert W. Begay is a talented Native American silversmith keeping tradition alive through beautiful handmade jewelry. Known for his detailed tufa cast work, Begay blends classic Navajo elements with an individual artistic touch. 

Meet Robert W. Begay

Robert W. Begay is a young Navajo (Diné) jeweler who grew up surrounded by art. His parents, Darryl Dean Begay and Rebecca T. Begay, are both award-winning artists known for their tufa cast jewelry. Robert started learning the traditional technique when he was just four years old. At six years old, he won first place for a silver tufa cast seed pot at the 2009 Santa Fe Indian Market. 

Today, the artist continues to use tufa casting and often incorporates natural stones such as turquoise into his pieces. He is inspired by the Southwestern landscape and the human form, particularly Native American men. Now considered one of the most promising young Native American jewelers, Robert has won awards at major art markets and has received honors such as the Goodman Aspiring Artist Fellowship. His work is gaining attention in galleries across the Southwest and shows a bright future ahead.

Discover Robert W. Begay’s Work

Robert W. Begay makes bold, handmade Navajo jewelry with deep cultural meaning. He works mainly with sterling silver, often using detailed saw work and oxidized backgrounds. The artist’s pieces, such as bracelets, pendants, bolo ties, and belt buckles, sometimes feature natural stones, including turquoise, lapis lazuli, and coral. Take a look at his one-of-a-kind creations below.

Bracelets

Robert’s bracelets embody Navajo traditions and his own artistry. His bracelets are handmade from sterling silver, many using the tufa casting technique, and some using stamp work. The bracelets often feature geometric patterns, human figures, and animals. Many of the artist’s pieces also incorporate gemstones such as turquoise and coral, typically as accents. These stunning bracelets are strong yet comfortable to wear.

Pendants

Robert’s pendants are handmade from sterling silver, normally using tufa casting. He uses traditional Navajo methods that include appliqué and satin finish. Symbols such as cornstalks and doves appear in Robert’s work and have spiritual meaning in the Navajo culture. You may also see stones such as turquoise. These pendants can be worn every day or saved for special occasions.

Bolo Ties

The artist’s bolo ties are bold and evocative. Each one has a handmade sterling silver slide and displays detailed saw work, appliqué, or oxidized finish. His bolo ties feature animals important in the Navajo culture, such as lizards or eagles, as well as human figures. In some bolo ties, a polished stone such as turquoise set in a bezel adds a strong focal point. A black leather cord and silver tips, sometimes accented with coral or turquoise, complete each piece. These bolo ties are both stylish and full of cultural meaning, perfect to wear or to collect. 

Belts Buckles

Robert’s belt buckles combine tradition, purpose, and style. His buckles are handmade from sterling silver using tufa casting or cuttlefish casting. The artist, sometimes in collaboration with his father, uses saw work, appliqué, raised cobblestone inlay, oxidized finish, and traditional Navajo symbols such as snakes. Polished stones like turquoise, coral, or lapis lazuli add vibrant color and visual interest to his remarkable pieces. These belt buckles are durable, made from high-quality materials, and are as often worn on special occasions as passed down in families.

Shop Robert W. Begay’s Jewelry at SilverTQ

Looking to acquire meaningful Navajo jewelry? Bring home Robert W. Begay’s stunning handmade Native American jewelry, now available at SilverTQ. From elegant bracelets to distinctive bolo ties, each piece showcases masterful skill and deep cultural pride, made to be worn and treasured.

FAQs

How do I know this jewelry is authentic?

Every piece by Robert W. Begay we carry is handmade and genuine. We always obtain all pieces straight from the artist. You can also see his hallmark, “R W B,” stamped on the back of the jewelry.

How do I care for my jewelry?

To keep your jewelry looking beautiful, store it in a pouch or a jewelry box, away from sunlight. Use a soft cloth and silver polish to clean the sterling silver. Avoid soap and water on the turquoise, and wipe it gently with a separate, dry cloth.