Is it made in Zuni, New Mexico or Hong Kong?

Imitation may be the highest form of flattery, but in the world of Indian Arts & Crafts, it cheats the Native American craftspeople and you, the buyer.

We hope this guide wil enhance your knowledge of Indian Arts & Crafts so that, in the future, you can recognize the genuine from the bogus. 

JEWELRY * Navajo jewelry normally contains larger stones and the designs are generally shaped around the stone(s). Zuni jewelry usually consists of pieces with many small stones or inlaid stones set in an variety of patterns. The stones are shaped to fit into a specific design. Hopi jewelry rarely uses stones but instead consists of two (or more) layers of silver soldered together with the design cut out of the top layer with a jeweler's saw. The recessed portion is then darkened to emphasize the pattern. In all types of jewelry, look for neatness in soldering, clean lines and harmony of design. A signed piece may be nice from an identification standpoint, but a signed piece does not necessarily mean a quality piece.

TURQUOISE * Turquoise stones should be carefully examined, A reliable dealer should be able to guarantee the authenticity of the turqouise and be able to tell whether it has been treated or stabilized. Stabilized turquoise is used in almost all hishi bead necklaces. The best natural turqouise is generally a deep color. But be careful, color‑treated turquoise is designed to imitate the deep color of the natural stone. Turquoise from some mines is considered better than turquoise from other mines; however, determining the mine a particular stone comes from is difficult, even for experts.

NAVAJO RUGS * There are many factors involved in selecting a Navajo rug. Tightnessof weaveevenness of weave and symmetry of design are all important in determining a rug's price. Also important is whether natural or commercial dyes have been used (natural native plant dyes are more difficult to use than commercial dye packets and will bring a higher price). The area a rug comes from may affect the price, but good or bad rugs can come out of any region. A reputable dealer will know the name of he Navajo weaver. 

POTTERY * Traditional Indian pottery is handcoiled of natural clay, not thrown on a potter's wheel using commercial clay. It is hand polished with a stone and hand painted. Above all, it is fired in an outdoor floven" as opposed to an electric kiln. Because of all the handwork, traditional pottery is rarely "perfect". However, an even shape, clean, accurate painting, a high polish (if it is a polished piece), and balanced design are all important factors in evaluating a pot. A signature on the piece may be important as a famous potter will certainly command a higher price than a less well‑known artist.

KACHINAS * The most important thing to look for in a Kanchina doll is detail in the carving. Carved fingers, toes, muscles, rib cages, feathers and costumes are things to look for. The doll should also be well~ proportioned with a good sense of physical balance. In recent years, Hopi carving has reached a high level of skill. The use of real feathers has been replaced by intricately carved ones and oil staines are being favored over the earlier bright acrylic paints ‑ giving these Kachinas a richy subtle appearance. Very well~ known carvers can get quite a high price for their dolls. 

SANDPAINTINGS * The rules regarding quality sandpaintings are like those for most paintings. Clean narrow lines, balance, intricacy of design, even colors and smooth craftmanship are all important.

GENERAL TIPS * All Indian arts and crafts are judged in the end on a personal basis. What may appeal to one person may not appeal to the next. Above all, feel comfortable with the item you select. You will have it for years to come. 

TRADING POST, CLASSIC WESTERN HOUSE enjoys a worldwide reputation for selling only 'genuine" Indian Arts & Crafts ... and this tradition will always remain our policy.