handmade native american jewelry, new age jewelryThe origins of handmade Native American jewelry date back to a time earlier then history books go. Since Native Americans have been around much longer then the first recorded sightings by Europeans or Spanish, it is hard to tell how far back trends, characteristics and techniques of handmade Native American jewelry really date back to. What is certain is that these are customs that have lasted the test of time. Today we see new age jewelry, healing gemstone jewelry and a whole range of other styles that take ideas from original handmade Native American jewelry.

 The great thing about these kinds of jewelry is the diversity and story that differs with the area it is coming from. Southwest Indians such as the Navajo or Apache were influenced by Spanish and people who had already adopted the pueblo culture during their rise in the 14-15th century. A very common trait of handmade Native American jewelry from this area is beads.

Beads have a long standing tradition in all sort of necklaces, bracelets and the like. At the time of the Apache and Navajo, the amount of beads they had on their jewelry was a symbol of their wealth, prestige and influence.

The spread of beaded jewelry was found throughout the Southwest because tribes like the Navajo were nomadic to help subsidize harsh farming conditions in the desert climate. Today we can see a further spread of handmade Native American jewelry because of online retailers and stores crafted after Indian traditions. It is nice to know that traditions of the past will continue on into the future because of movements like New Age or stores that sell products that imitate handmade Native American jewelry.

Many people consider diamonds to be the most precious stone available but that does not mean it is the only stone to strive for. Emerald, malachite or amethyst jewelry can be just as breathtaking. You may be wondering how other metals and non-ingenious stones became part of Indian tradition.

Apart from trading and a nomadic lifestyle many tribes especially in the Southwest took precise metals and stones from those they defeated which were mostly Spanish for the Navajo. Understanding the piece of jewelry you are wearing can make it that much more special. Not to mention when that piece catches the eye of someone else you are able to tell a story about where the traditions, metals, and stones were derived from. Another great thing about categories such as New Age jewelry is that bits from different tribes and traditions are sometimes blended to create an amazing product. Before buying an Indian piece, make sure to get the back-story on where it came from and what it means. Good luck hunting for that special piece.