Eddie Secatero Jr.: Carrying Diné Silversmithing Forward
- Santa Fe Sun Handmade

- Jan 28
- 2 min read
Eddie Secatero Jr. is a Diné silversmith whose work reflects both family tradition and personal dedication to craft. Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Eddie was introduced to silversmithing at a young age by his parents, Agnes and Eddie Secatero. Learning directly from family instilled not only technical skills, but also an understanding of jewelry as a meaningful cultural practice rather than a purely decorative art.
While attending To’hajiilee Community School, Eddie continued to refine his skills, balancing formal education with hands-on learning at the bench. Like many Native silversmiths, his early training emphasized patience, precision, and respect for materials—values that continue to shape his work today.
Now creating jewelry full time, Eddie lives and works in Canoncito, New Mexico. His jewelry is defined by a sawcut design style, a technique that relies on hand-cut silver patterns created with a jeweler’s saw rather than stamps or casting. Sawcut work requires a steady hand and careful planning, resulting in clean lines, open spaces, and strong graphic balance.
Rooted in traditional Diné silversmithing methods, Eddie’s sawcut pieces emphasize solid construction and wearable design. Each piece is formed, soldered, and finished by hand, with close attention to detail at every stage. The precision of sawcut silver allows the metal itself to become the focal point, creating jewelry that is both visually striking and timeless.
Eddie’s work carries the quiet strength of tradition without relying on excess or trend-driven embellishment. His designs are grounded, balanced, and enduring—qualities that make his jewelry easy to wear and meaningful to collect. Whether creating bracelets, rings, or other adornments, Eddie approaches each piece with consistency and respect for the craft taught to him by his parents.
For collectors, Eddie Secatero Jr.’s jewelry represents more than adornment. It is a continuation of Diné silversmithing knowledge passed from one generation to the next, expressed through a disciplined sawcut style that honors both heritage and individual artistry.
At our store, we are honored to represent Eddie Secatero Jr.’s work and share his story with collectors who value authenticity, tradition, and the lasting beauty of handmade Native jewelry.




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