Native American keychains, mostly by Navajo artists, many with sterling silver designs on nickel and some set with turquoise, coral or spiny oyster. Styles include stamped tags and fobs with symbols such as the sun, eagle and horse head. Nearly all are handmade and include an original certificate of authenticity.
Navajo Keychain Designs
The keychains with a listed tribe are Navajo work. The decorated top is usually hand stamped or set with a stone in a handmade bezel, often with a twisted wire border, and some are signed by the artist. Learn about the tradition in our Navajo jewelry guide.
Metals and Stones
Most keychains combine sterling silver and nickel. On many, the decorated top or the stone setting is the sterling silver part and the rest is nickel; the listing says which part is sterling. Some keychains are all sterling silver.
Where a stone is used it is most often turquoise, with some coral and spiny oyster, including purple spiny oyster. See our guides to coral and spiny oyster to learn more.
Size and Everyday Use
Many keychains are long fobs that are easy to find in a bag, and some are small tags; the listing gives the exact size. A keychain gets knocked around in pockets and bags, so expect the silver to pick up a soft patina over time, which many owners like. A keychain also makes a practical gift for a new driver, homeowner or anyone who loves Southwest jewelry. Some listings show a representative photo, so the piece you receive may vary slightly in stone color and pattern.
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 where the metal is silver, and paperwork naming the maker. Our hallmarks guide explains what the stamps mean, and nearly all keychains here include an original certificate of authenticity.
Care Tips
Wipe the silver with a soft cloth, keep the stone away from water and hand sanitizer, and keep the keychain away from loose coins and tools that can scratch it.