Some artists discover their craft. Others are born into it. Navajo silversmith Bobbie Johnson grew up in Church Rock, New Mexico, just outside Gallup, where jewelry making was part of everyday life. Rather than learning in a formal classroom, he learned the way many traditional Diné silversmiths have for generations—by watching, helping, practicing, and gradually mastering the techniques passed down within his own family.

Some artists capture the beauty of the Southwest by recreating what they see. David Tune captures it by recreating how he sees it.

Some artists inherit a profession. Others inherit a legacy. For Navajo silversmith Richard Singer, jewelry making represents generations of family tradition, cultural pride, and artistic storytelling. Every bracelet, pendant, buckle, ring, or necklace he creates reflects not only his own craftsmanship, but also the teachings of those who came before him. A Heritage Rooted in the Navajo Nation Richard Singer is a third-generation Navajo silversmith from Standing Horse Mesa on

Every great artistic tradition depends on a new generation willing to carry it forward. For Navajo (Diné) silversmithing, that future is already taking shape through brothers Landon and Wylie Secatero—two talented emerging artists whose handcrafted sterling silver jewelry is already earning the admiration of collectors throughout the Southwest. Raised in a family where jewelry making was more than a profession, the brothers grew up surrounded by the sights and sounds of the j

Among today's talented Navajo silversmiths, Sharon Cooley has earned recognition for creating sterling silver jewelry that honors generations of Diné craftsmanship while embracing a timeless, wearable style. Her work reflects the enduring beauty of traditional Navajo silver bead making, proving that simplicity, when executed with exceptional skill, can make a powerful statement. A Contemporary Voice in a Historic Tradition Sharon Cooley is a Navajo (Diné) silversmith whose wo

In the world of Navajo silversmithing, mastery is usually measured in decades. It is a craft built on patience, repetition, and countless hours at the bench. That is what makes the work of Tyler Brown so remarkable.

For more than four decades, Navajo silversmith Paul Livingston has been creating jewelry that reflects both tradition and a continual drive to refine his craft. His work is instantly recognizable to collectors who appreciate detailed silverwork, carefully selected natural stones, and the exceptional precision that has become a signature of his jewelry.

Among today's respected Navajo silversmiths, Ronald Tom has earned recognition for creating striking sterling silver jewelry that celebrates the beauty of natural turquoise and the enduring traditions of Native American craftsmanship. His work is admired by collectors for its bold presence, quality construction, and timeless Southwestern character. Based in New Mexico, Ronald Tom creates handcrafted jewelry that reflects both his Navajo heritage and his own artistic vision.

Among today’s younger generation of Navajo silversmiths, Dakota Willie has developed a style that feels both deeply traditional and unmistakably modern. Born and raised in To’hajiilee, New Mexico, on the Navajo reservation, Dakota comes from a family long connected to Native American jewelry making. Multiple sources note that Dakota learned the craft directly from his father, renowned Navajo silversmith Ronnie Willie, continuing a family tradition of handmade sterling silver

Preston Haley is a Navajo (Diné) silversmith whose work is widely appreciated for its strength, balance, and respect for traditional craftsmanship. An enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, Haley comes from a family of silversmiths, where jewelry-making knowledge is passed down through close observation, shared experience, and years of hands-on practice. This family foundation continues to shape both his technique and his approach to design.

In the world of Native American jewelry, certain artists leave behind more than objects—they leave a voice. Navajo artist Bob Becenti, also known as Robert Becenti (1949–2001), was one of those rare creators whose work bridged fine art and traditional silversmithing, carrying the spirit of the Southwest into every piece he made.

Robert Johnson is an accomplished Navajo silversmith whose work reflects both deep-rooted tradition and refined technical skill. Born in Gallup, New Mexico, and raised in Pinedale, he graduated from Gallup High School in 1986—the same year that would mark a turning point in his artistic journey. Early Life and Introduction to Silversmithing Johnson began his career in jewelry at just 14 years old, working as a buffer for his parents, who created handmade sterling silver beads

Award-winning Navajo silversmith Calvin Martinez has spent decades honoring the roots of his craft while creating jewelry that resonates with both beauty and meaning. Born in 1960 and active as a silversmith for over 30 years, Martinez represents a powerful link between the earliest Navajo metalsmiths and today’s collectors who value authenticity and tradition.

In the world of contemporary Navajo jewelry, few artists embody enduring elegance quite like Mary Ellen Pease. A respected matriarch within the celebrated Willie family of artists—and mother to renowned silversmith Ronnie Willie—she has spent decades refining a style that seamlessly blends traditional Navajo craftsmanship with a polished, fashion-forward sensibility.

A Life Shaped by Tradition Robert Chee is a highly skilled Navajo (Diné) silversmith from New Mexico, raised near the historic Manuelito Trading Post , an area once known for producing some of the finest Navajo rug weaving. While weaving traditions in the region have declined over time, Chee’s work represents the continuation of another important Navajo art form—silversmithing. Early Life and Family Robert Chee was born in 1952 at home and grew up in a large family of ten ch

Tonya June Rafael is a celebrated Navajo (Diné) silversmith whose bold, intricate jewelry reflects both deep cultural roots and a striking contemporary voice. She is originally from the Blackwater/Prewitt area near Gallup, New Mexico, where she continues to live and work, drawing inspiration from the landscapes and traditions of the Southwest.

Paul Jameson is a Navajo silversmith whose work captures the heart and soul of a family tradition that has been passed down for generations. Born into the Jameson family, known throughout New Mexico for their exceptional silversmithing, Paul’s artistry is deeply rooted in both heritage and hands-on experience.

Ella Linkin is a Navajo artist whose jewelry reflects both deep cultural roots and a highly recognizable personal style. Born in 1954 in Gallup, she is a member of the Salt People Clan and born for the Water Edge Clan—an important aspect of identity within Navajo culture.

Among the many respected names in Native American jewelry, Vernon and Clarissa Hale stand out for their commitment to tradition, craftsmanship, and cultural continuity. As Navajo silversmiths, their work reflects generations of skill passed down through family and community, rooted deeply in the artistic heritage of the Navajo Nation.

Lily Yazzie is a Diné (Navajo) silversmith known for her beautifully handcrafted Navajo pearl jewelry. Her work reflects the long tradition of Navajo silverwork while continuing the artistic legacy of the well-known Yazzie family of jewelers.