Native American sterling silver refers to .925 silver jewelry crafted by enrolled tribal artists, where the metal is hand‑fabricated using traditional techniques such as hand‑hammering, casting, and repoussé, often combined with genuine stones like turquoise or coral to create culturally specific adornments.

  • .925 sterling silver sheet or wire
  • Jeweler's hammer and anvil
  • Chasing and repoussé tools
  • Propane torch and solder
  • Pickle solution and rinsing tank
  • Polishing cloths and compounds
  • Genuine stones (turquoise, coral, etc.)
  • Safety goggles and gloves
  1. Gather Materials

    Source high‑quality .925 silver and genuine stones from reputable suppliers. LomaSiiva’s All Products page showcases trusted sources for authentic materials.

  2. Prepare the Silver

    Anneal the silver by heating it evenly, then quench in water. This softens the metal for shaping. Refer to classic Navajo Jewelry examples to understand traditional proportions.

  3. Shape the Design

    Using hammer and chasing tools, form the desired silhouette—whether a cuff, pendant, or ring. For inspiration, browse the Bracelets collection to see how artisans translate motifs into three‑dimensional forms.

  4. Set the Stones

    Create bezels or pave settings, then secure stones with solder and pickling. A practical illustration is the Large .925 Sterling Silver Navajo Native American Graduated Heishi Natural Turquoise and Coral 3 Strand Necklace, which demonstrates precise stone placement.

  5. Finish and Polish

    File any rough edges, tumble the piece, then hand‑polish to a mirror finish. The Earrings collection shows the impact of a flawless surface on overall visual appeal.

  6. Care and Storage

    Store finished work in a dry, soft pouch and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals. For long‑term preservation, review guidelines from Native American Rings and Authentic Native American Pendants. LomaSiiva can also advise on provenance verification for future collectors.

By following these steps, you’ll create pieces that honor traditional craftsmanship while meeting contemporary standards of quality.