Beyond Turquoise: Other Stones and Materials Used in Native American Jewelry
Introduction
Turquoise may be the most famous gemstone in Native American jewelry, but it's far from the only one. Native artisans use a wide variety of stones and materials to create jewelry rich in color, texture, and meaning. From bold coral to luminous mother-of-pearl, each material tells its own story and adds depth to every piece.
In this guide, we’ll explore the other stones and materials you’ll find in authentic Native American jewelry—and where to find them in our collections.
Coral
Coral is a striking red or orange material often used alongside turquoise in traditional jewelry. It has long been prized for its vibrant color and symbolic meanings, including protection and vitality.
✔️ Color: Deep red to bright orange.
✔️ Common Uses: Inlay work, bead necklaces, and accents in rings and bracelets.
✔️ Symbolism: Strength, life force, and safe travel.
👉 Browse our Coral Jewelry Collection to see beautiful coral designs.
Onyx
Onyx is a deep black stone that offers a sleek, modern contrast to turquoise and silver. Its smooth, polished surface and bold appearance make it a favorite for statement pieces.
✔️ Color: Pure black or with subtle banding.
✔️ Common Uses: Rings, pendants, and inlaid cuffs.
✔️ Symbolism: Protection, grounding, and strength.
👉 See our Onyx Collection for authentic onyx jewelry.
Spiny Oyster
Spiny oyster shell is a vibrant material sourced from the Gulf of California. It comes in a range of shades from bright orange to purple and adds warmth to jewelry pieces.
✔️ Color: Orange, red, and purple tones.
✔️ Common Uses: Inlays, pendants, and bracelets.
✔️ Symbolism: Renewal, courage, and endurance.
👉 Explore our Spiny Oyster Collection to discover this unique material.
White Buffalo
Often mistaken for turquoise, White Buffalo is a rare stone with a creamy white color and dark veining. It’s a bold alternative to turquoise with its own unique look.
✔️ Color: White with black or brown matrix.
✔️ Common Uses: Large statement rings, cuffs, and necklaces.
✔️ Symbolism: Clarity, balance, and spiritual awareness.
👉 Shop the White Buffalo Collection for standout pieces.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli, often just called lapis, is a deep blue stone flecked with gold pyrite. Native artisans use lapis for its rich color and historical connections to wisdom and truth.
✔️ Color: Deep blue with gold flecks.
✔️ Common Uses: Earrings, inlays, and pendants.
✔️ Symbolism: Wisdom, truth, and enlightenment.
👉 See what’s available in our Lapis Collection.
Pink Conch Shell
Pink conch shell brings soft pastel tones to Native jewelry. It’s commonly used in Zuni and Navajo pieces, adding a delicate touch to the boldness of silver and turquoise.
✔️ Color: Pale pink to peach.
✔️ Common Uses: Earrings, pendants, and inlays.
✔️ Symbolism: Serenity, love, and emotional balance.
👉 Browse the Pink Conch Collection.
Mother of Pearl
Mother of Pearl is the iridescent inner layer of mollusk shells. Its subtle shimmer adds elegance to Native American designs, often paired with silver for a soft, sophisticated look.
✔️ Color: White with rainbow sheen.
✔️ Common Uses: Inlays, earrings, and necklaces.
✔️ Symbolism: Purity, protection, and calming energy.
Sterling Silver
While not a stone, sterling silver is essential in Native American jewelry. Its durability and beauty provide the perfect foundation for all the stones mentioned above.
✔️ Purity: 92.5% silver with 7.5% alloy for strength.
✔️ Common Uses: Bezels, cuffs, stamped designs, and more.
✔️ Significance: Silver reflects the moon’s light and is revered for its protective qualities.
👉 Explore our full Sterling Silver Jewelry Collection.
Unique Combinations
Many Native American artisans are known for combining multiple stones in one piece. For example:
✔️ Turquoise with Coral: Bold color contrast.
✔️ Onyx with White Buffalo: Striking monochrome designs.
✔️ Spiny Oyster with Turquoise: Vibrant Southwest vibes.
These combinations highlight the artisan’s creativity and the region’s rich natural resources.
Conclusion
While turquoise remains iconic, Native American jewelry is a tapestry of stones and materials, each with its own meaning and beauty. Whether you're drawn to the fiery hues of coral, the dark mystery of onyx, or the luminous glow of mother of pearl, there's a world of artistry to explore.
Discover your next piece of authentic jewelry here:
➡️ Coral Jewelry Collection
➡️ Onyx Collection
➡️ Spiny Oyster Collection
➡️ White Buffalo Collection
➡️ Lapis Collection
➡️ Pink Conch Collection
➡️ Sterling Silver Jewelry Collection
Internal Links Recap:
➡️ Coral Jewelry
➡️ Onyx Jewelry
➡️ Spiny Oyster
➡️ White Buffalo
➡️ Lapis
➡️ Pink Conch
➡️ Sterling Silver