From Church Rock to Collectors Worldwide: The Art of Paul Livingston
- Santa Fe Sun Handmade
- Jun 3
- 2 min read
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.
Raised on the Church Rock Reservation in New Mexico, Paul discovered silversmithing at an early age. As a young boy, he spent countless hours observing a family member at the workbench, fascinated by the process of turning sterling silver and raw stones into finished pieces of wearable art. Those early experiences sparked a lifelong interest that would eventually become his profession.
By his early twenties, Paul had committed himself to jewelry making full-time. What began as a young artist learning the fundamentals of the trade gradually evolved into a respected career that has earned recognition from collectors across the country. Today, his work is sought after by those who value authentic Navajo craftsmanship and the skill required to create intricate handmade jewelry.
Among the qualities that distinguish Paul's work is his mastery of cluster and row-style stone settings. These designs require extraordinary patience and attention to detail, as numerous small stones must be individually positioned to create a balanced and visually harmonious composition. While many silversmiths prefer working with larger centerpiece stones, Paul has built a reputation for his ability to work with even the smallest stones, arranging them with remarkable consistency and precision.
His jewelry often showcases rows of turquoise, coral, spiny oyster shell, lapis, and other natural materials that come together to create pieces rich in color and texture. The careful placement of each stone allows the overall design to feel both intricate and elegant, a balance that few artists achieve as successfully.
Another hallmark of Paul's jewelry is his exceptional silverwork. Many of his pieces feature detailed saw-cut designs that add depth and visual interest throughout the work. These intricate patterns require a steady hand and years of experience, transforming simple sheets of sterling silver into complex decorative elements that complement the stones they surround.
Although Paul's work is firmly rooted in traditional Navajo jewelry-making techniques, he has never stopped exploring new ideas. Throughout his career he has experimented with textures, finishes, and design elements that bring fresh perspectives to his creations while maintaining the craftsmanship collectors expect from his work.
His willingness to incorporate a variety of natural stones and occasionally explore materials not commonly seen in Native jewelry has also contributed to his distinctive style. The result is a body of work that honors tradition while remaining uniquely his own.
At Santa Fe Sun Handmade, we are proud to offer jewelry created by artists like Paul Livingston. Each piece reflects decades of experience, dedication, and a genuine passion for the art of silversmithing. Whether you're drawn to his precise stonework, detailed silver designs, or timeless Southwestern aesthetic, Paul's jewelry represents the kind of authentic handmade artistry that becomes a treasured part of a collection for years to come.
From his beginnings on the Church Rock Reservation to his reputation as an accomplished and respected Navajo artist, Paul Livingston's journey is a testament to the enduring value of craftsmanship, patience, and a lifelong commitment to creating beautiful wearable art.
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