Characteristics Of Authentic Native American Jewelry

Each piece of native American jewelry is unique and holds a distinctive feature that makes them apart. It is the result of hours of intensive labor and great skill, which makes it appear not only exquisite but also significantly beautiful and extraordinary.

A fair price for the piece of jewelry will be on the higher side. So, one of the characteristics of American jewelry is probably its price point. If you see the consignment store bargaining for the price, it means you aren’t buying authentic hand-made Native jewelry.

Therefore, we bring you some significant characteristics to understand the originality of Authentic Native American Jewelry…

• What does the law say?

When it comes to authentic native jewelry, federal law provides some consumer protection for those trying to purchase authentic Native American jewelry.

There is an Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990 that mandates the terms “Native American” and “Indian” can only be used on jewelry created by the member of a state, or at least by a federally-recognized tribe or nation.

What you have to keep in mind about terms like “Indian style.” If you see such pieces having this type of term, then it means that the pieces will look authentic, but in reality, they won’t.

• Search for telltale signs:

In addition to the price and the labeling, some signs will help the buyers differentiate between authentic and fake jewelry pieces.

The presence of the hallmark, or the silversmith’s signature, or sometimes both, can indicate that the piece you are holding is authentic.

Although keep in mind that not all artists sign their work, so if there is an absence of the hallmark, you cannot take it as the primary authenticity test.

• Look for other signs as well:

Other signs of authenticity will include the quality of the materials used in the making of the jewelry. Native American artists always take pride in their work because they use the highest qualities to produce such a distinctive piece.

Hence, authentic native jewelry will most commonly be made out of sterling silver. The easiest way to determine whether the piece of jewelry you are holding is made out of sterling jewelry or not is by using a small magnet.

If the magnet doesn’t pull the piece, then it is original. So, next time you want to buy Authentic Native American Jewelry, head to Estate Consignments to avail yourself of a great deal.