Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean and care for genuine Native American Jewelry to keep it looking its best?
Sterling silver naturally darkens over time, and many pieces are finished with a light patina to enhance their character. To gently remove any tarnish or patina, use a soft polishing cloth—never solvents, commercial cleaners, or steam. Keep jewelry completely dry: remove rings before washing hands, using hand sanitizer, or applying lotions, and avoid any liquid contact (water, oils, perfumes). Moisture can expand the sawdust setting in Native American inlay work, loosening or displacing stones. Also avoid heat and harsh chemicals (chlorine, ammonia, household cleaners). For storage, keep each piece in a cool, dry place—ideally inside an airtight anti-tarnish bag or a soft cloth pouch—and store items separately to prevent scratching.
Learn More:
Native American Jewelry Care Guide
What does the “STERLING” or “925” stamp mean on Native silver jewelry?
A “STERLING” or “925” stamp tells you that the maker crafted the piece from 92.5% pure silver mixed with 7.5% alloy for extra strength, ensuring you get genuine, durable sterling silver often used in Native jewelry.
How to Tell If Your Turquoise Jewelry Is Real?
Distinguishing real turquoise from imitations involves both visual cues and simple tests. Genuine turquoise often shows a natural web-like matrix and can have slight color variations, whereas dyed howlite or plastic imitations may look too uniformly colored. Check the hardness with care: real turquoise resists a light scratch, while softer imitations may mark easily. You can also hold the piece under a magnifier—natural stone has tiny pits and texture, while resin looks smooth. When in doubt, buy from a reputable seller who provides authenticity guarantees or certificates.
Learn More:
How to Tell If Your Turquoise Jewelry Is Real?
What is Kingman turquoise and what makes it special?
Kingman turquoise is a highly sought-after variety mined in the Kingman Mine, Arizona. It’s prized for its vibrant blue hues, consistent coloring, and fine matrix patterns, making each piece uniquely beautiful and a popular choice for high-quality jewelry.
What is Spiny Oyster used in Native American jewelry?
Spiny Oyster is a vibrant shell from the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez, known for its rich orange, red, and purple hues. Unlike gemstones, it's an organic material harvested from a type of mollusk. Native American artisans have used Spiny Oyster for generations, often pairing it with turquoise or silver to create bold, colorful jewelry. Its natural texture and color variation make each piece truly one-of-a-kind.
Let customers speak for us
Pamela Vahrenkamp
Stunning
Just the size pearls i was looking for. They were a gift to my daughter for Mother’s Day. She loved them!
