Gilbert Tom: Old Pawn Revival and Lasting Influence

Gilbert Tom was a highly regarded Navajo silversmith celebrated for his masterful revival of old pawn–style jewelry. His work is instantly recognizable for its intricate stamp work, substantial heavy-gauge sterling silver, and the use of high-quality natural turquoise. Each piece reflects a deep respect for traditional Navajo silversmithing while showcasing Tom’s own disciplined, unmistakable hand.

A defining feature of Gilbert Tom’s jewelry is his distinctive stacked silver technique. By layering and building silver components, he created texture, dimension, and visual depth—giving his pieces both physical weight and artistic presence. This method, combined with bold hand stamping, resulted in jewelry that feels timeless and grounded in tradition rather than trend.

Tom frequently featured prized turquoise varieties such as White Water, Royston, and Kingman, often set simply to allow the stone’s natural color and matrix to remain the focal point. In addition to turquoise, his work commonly incorporated coral, lapis lazuli, spiny oyster, and amber, all set in sterling silver and typically left untreated.

Sterling Silver and Tyrone Turquoise handstamped earrings by Navajo silversmith Gilbert Tom.

Style, Technique, and Influence

• Style: Old-style and old pawn revival jewelry with heavy silver and traditional Navajo design elements

• Techniques: Hand stamping and stacked, layered silver construction for added texture and depth

• Materials: Natural turquoise, coral, lapis, spiny oyster, and amber set in sterling silver

  
  

Artistic Lineage

Gilbert Tom studied with or was influenced by Harry Morgan, one of the most respected Navajo silversmiths known for his own bold silverwork. While that influence is evident in Tom’s early foundation, he went on to develop a clearly distinct and fully realized style—one that was consistently signed and widely recognized by collectors.

Legacy

Gilbert Tom passed away in early 2024, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be highly collectible. His jewelry is valued not only for its craftsmanship and materials, but for its authenticity and adherence to traditional Navajo silversmithing standards. Today, his pieces stand as enduring examples of old-style Navajo jewelry—honoring the past while remaining deeply relevant to serious collectors.

Gilbert Tom

Sterling Silver and Tyrone Turquoise Cross Dangle Earrings Blue-Green

$890.00$445.00

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Gilbert Tom

Sterling Silver and Tyrone Turquoise Cross Dangle Earrings Blue

$890.00$445.00

Buy Now