Bracelets

Native American Bracelets

Authentically Made

Native American bracelets come in a wide variety of distinctive styles and designs. Authentically handcrafted by a skilled Native American artist, these beautiful bracelets are considered a “must have” to most everyone’s wardrobes. One can be assured being noticed from the crowd when wearing one!

Artists originating from the Navajo, Zuni and Hopi Indian tribes are those most typically credited for creating these “art pieces for the wrist.” Typically made of sterling silver, many different techniques are used by these artists contributing each bracelet’s individual flair and appeal. Each of the three tribes mentioned have an identifiable style. Each style can be defined by the different artistic techniques associated with their respective tribe. All Native American bracelets marketed and sold by SilverTQ, LLC are 100% sterling silver, fully handcrafted and made entirely in the USA.

Bracelet Designs

The three major designs of the Native American bracelet are categorized as being cuff, bangle or link. The cuff bracelet is a sterling silver piece often adorned with turquoise and/or other semi-precious stones. It is defined by a bottom opening generally one to one and three quarters inches wide, give or take a fraction of an inch. Considering the bottom opening, it should be noted the wearer of the cuff bracelet will generally seek some type of sizing system to determine the best fit for his or her wrist: Sizing

Bangle bracelets are of a simple design. A continuous sterling silver band usually decorated with turquoise and/or other semi-precious stones generally defines them. Although no definitive sizing system is applied, they are often categorized in small, medium or large sizes.

Link bracelets are defined as having sterling silver links connecting other sterling silver pieces, which often include natural semi-precious stones, particularly turquoise. Sizing is typically not necessary as these bracelets are adjustable. The bracelet’s design provides the wearer with a clasp at the end that can be easily attached or “locked into” one of several links marking different lengths.

Defining Artist Techniques

The Navajo artist is known to use a number of techniques including cabochon, stampwork, appliqué, repousse, high-shine finish, satin finish, file work, saw work and, on occasion, overlay. Additionally, Navajo artists are known to use natural shaped stones for many of their bracelets. However, it should also be noted that some will use cut stones. Navajo artists or silversmiths traditionally enhance their heavier weighted silver work with using semi-precious stones, particularly many types of turquoise.

Techniques used by Zuni artists are largely different than those used by the Navajo and Hopi artists. Intricate needlepoint, petit point, stone on stone inlay, channel inlay and high-shine finish are the primary techniques credited to the Zuni artist. In comparison to bracelets made by the Navajo and Hopi, Zuni jewelry tends to appear more refined and precise.

Bracelets made by the Hopi artist are generally deemed to be rarer than those made by any tribe. The Hopi artist is best known for their intricate overlay technique. The overlay is created by the artist sawing out a preconceived design on a top sheet of silver. This top sheet is then soldered onto a solid sterling silver bottom sheet to create an impressive 3-D design. Due to this technique requiring the use of more sterling silver, Hopi bracelets will tend to be heavier in weight. A stunning piece of artistic craftsmanship for sure.

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Native American bracelets, regardless of style or artist technique, are truly impressive pieces of artist-handcrafted jewelry. Their iconic look and loyal customer following should continue for centuries to come. It’s hard to imagine one not looking just a little more attractive wearing one.

Our Promise

Offering sterling silver Native American jewelry handcrafted in the USA is the fundamental “business mantra” of SilverTQ, LLC. Imported or imitation jewelry of any kind is not what we sell. No matter the style or styles of these expertly handcrafted pieces of wearable art, you can be assured complete satisfaction. Individually made, one at a time, each piece to be cherished and worn proudly.