Navajo concho buttons handmade in sterling silver by Navajo artists, set with turquoise or white howlite. Each concho is signed by the artist and includes an original certificate of authenticity.
What Is a Concho
A concho is a round or oval silver ornament, and conchos have long been part of Navajo silverwork on belts, bridles, hatbands, bags and clothing. Concho buttons are a smaller form used to decorate a jacket, vest, hat or leather piece, or as an accent in your own project. Read more about the history and styles of Navajo silverwork in our Navajo jewelry guide.
Stones and Metal
The conchos in this collection are sterling silver with a single stone in a handmade bezel. One is set with turquoise, in the blue and green tones most people know from Navajo work. The other is set with white howlite, a white stone with gray veining. Howlite is its own stone and is not turquoise; the product page names the stone used on each piece.
Size
The size of each concho is listed on the product page. Compare it with the hatband, strap or garment where you plan to use it. Many listings show a representative photo, so the piece you receive may vary slightly in stone color and pattern.
Ways to Use Concho Buttons
Concho buttons can replace the buttons on a denim or leather jacket, decorate a hatband, accent a purse or saddle bag, or finish a bolo tie or leather bracelet. A matched turquoise and howlite pair also makes a good contrast on a single piece.
How to Check Authenticity
Authentic Native American work is made by an enrolled member of a recognized tribe, and selling imitations as Indian-made is illegal under the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. Look for an artist hallmark, a sterling stamp on the silver, and paperwork naming the maker. Our hallmarks guide explains what the stamps mean.
Care
Wipe the silver with a soft jewelry cloth, keep the stone away from water, lotion and cleaning chemicals, and remove conchos from clothing before washing it.