Who is FL Begay?
Native American artisan Francis L. Begay is Diné of the Navajo Nation. He is a talented silversmith specializing in sterling silver Jewelry which is oftentimes hand cast. His hallmark signature is FL BEGAY.
How do I identify old pawn jewelry?
Authentic Old Pawn jewelry will have a natural gray patina, indicating age. It takes decades for the patina to develop and may appear grayer in dry climates like the southwest. Humidity will add a darker, blacker patina. Patina typically isn’t buffed off in order to preserve its history and value.
Is Native American jewelry stamped?
Many Native American jewelry designers stamp their jewelry with a small hallmark or signature. Before you purchase hallmarked jewelry, look up other pieces to make sure that the insignia looks the same as other genuine pieces.
How can you tell if jewelry is native?
How to Tell If Native American Jewelry is Authentic
- Look at the seller’s entire inventory. Authentic Native American jewelry is handmade by individual artisans, which means no two pieces will be the same.
- Inspect the quality of the materials.
- Ask for specific information about the artist.
Is Native American jewelry stamped 925?
If it is stamped . 925 or SS, it is less likely to be Native American made because the traditional stamps say “Sterling.” However, on small items, such as rings, where there is little room to stamp anything, the shorter . 925 or SS stamp may be used by both native and non-native artists.
How do I identify turquoise?
Turquoise is naturally a soft stone, but howlite (the turquoise imitation), is even softer. This means that if you scratch your stone and it scratches easily, you most likely have a piece of howlite. But if it’s very difficult to scratch your stone, you’ve got genuine turquoise!
How can I tell if my turquoise is real?
Where does a hallmark go in Native American jewelry?
A hallmark is put into the back of a piece of Native American Jewelry, Pottery, or other craft to identify the maker.
Who are some famous people that make hallmark jewelry?
Hallmark: Alex Sanchez. Born in 1969. Younger brother of Myron Panteah. He is the winner of several awards. Known for his “petroglyph” jewelry. Amy Quandelacy: Zuni.
Where did Kenneth Begay learn to make silver?
Begay learned silvermaking from his father, well-known and respected silversmith Kenneth Begay (1913-1977). For much of his career, the elder Begay worked at the White Hogan, a Scottsdale shop. The younger Begay worked there with him, while attending Arizona State University in Tempe in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
When did Touraine Begay make his first bracelet?
Today Begay uses techniques learned from both his father and Touraine, never losing sight of his culture and heritage. Excelling in casting techniques, he substituted gold for silver in the Southwest, as the single setting for a bracelet he made in 1997. Copyright 2012 Bassman, T. Beauty of Hopi Jewelry. 1999.