Delbert Gordon is a celebrated Navajo silversmith whose jewelry showcases deep cultural roots, skilled techniques, and traditional revival designs. His jewelry is known for its distinct stamp work and use of heavy silver and high-grade turquoise. Delbert’s handmade pieces embody the spirit of his people and reflect decades of mastery.
Meet Delbert Gordon
Delbert Gordon was born in 1955 in Houck, Arizona, and raised in Tohatchi, New Mexico. Inspired by his uncle, T.K. Whitman, he began silversmithing at 17 and is primarily self-taught. Delbert considers himself an artist first, but started making jewelry with his brother-in-law after high school and continued selling it for ten years. Having acquired an admirable reputation, he caught the attention of a local jewelry shop and worked for them for over 20 years before striking out on his own again. The artist has been a great mentor to many other silversmiths, including his nephew, Derrick Gordon.
His approach to jewelry making is first to pick the stone and then allow it to dictate the design, building the silver around it. Delbert says that until the stone “speaks” to him, he never knows what the final silverwork will look like.
Discover Delbert Gordon's Work
Delbert Gordon specializes in traditional Navajo jewelry, including rings, bracelets, pendants, and earrings. His pieces are well-known for bold lines, ornate stamp work, and the use of thick silver. The artist also often incorporates natural turquoise from celebrated mines such as Sleeping Beauty, Royston, and Bisbee.
Pendants
Delbert Gordon's pendants stand out thanks to their strong silhouettes and intricate stamp work that radiates from the stone in the center. He uses oval, freeform, and other shapes of natural turquoise with rich, vibrant tones, pairing it with heavy silver that gives each piece a powerful and enduring presence. The designs are elaborate and often feature repoussé, saw work, and appliqué. Many of his pendants also incorporate rope patterns, scalloped edges, and the naja shape. These pieces are not only visually striking but also made with a sense of purpose and connection to tradition.
Rings
Delbert's rings are among the most recognizable in Native American jewelry. Each one features heavy silver and bold turquoise or other natural stones, often set in raised bezels. His stamp work is deliberate and symmetrical, framing the stone in a way that draws the eye and holds the gaze. Many rings include scalloped edges, twist wire, and flared bands that add structure and style. Delbert Gordon's rings are made to be worn with pride, combining strength and elegance in a truly timeless way.
Bracelets
Not only are the artist’s bracelets visually appealing, but their quality is also unmatched. The bracelets often feature deep stamp work, bordered edges, and focal stones from high-grade turquoise mines such as Kingman, Bisbee, and Dry Creek. Some bracelets incorporate repoussé and twisted wire, lending the pieces additional depth and texture. Delbert's bracelets are made for those who appreciate strength, symmetry, and storytelling through art.
Shop Delbert Gordon's Jewelry at SilverTQ
When you shop for Delbert Gordon's work at SilverTQ, you purchase jewelry that connects you with a story, a culture, and an artist who puts intention into every detail of his work. We are proud to showcase his authentic handmade pieces, and we are here to help you find the jewelry that speaks to you.
FAQs
How can I verify the authenticity of the jewelry?
All jewelry we sell is guaranteed to be authentic and handmade by the artist. We verify each piece based on his known techniques, materials, and hallmark.
How do I care for my jewelry?
You can care for the jewelry by avoiding chemical cleaners and polishing machines that may damage the silver and the stones. Clean the piece gently with a soft, dry cloth to remove any oils and dust. Always keep it in a fabric-lined box or a pouch to prevent scratches and tarnishing.
What materials does Delbert Gordon use in his jewelry?
Delbert Gordon only uses sterling silver and high-grade natural stones. His preferred turquoise mines include Sleeping Beauty, Royston, Bisbee, and Kingman, although he is also known to use coral and other stones.
