Navajo Cuff Links Discount Internet Sources

Navajo Cuff Links

A cuff link is a decorative fastener worn to hold together the two sides of the cuff on a shirt or blouse. They are designed for sleeves which have cuffs with buttonholes but no buttons. The "face" or visible part of a cuff link is often decorated with stones or monogrammed. Navajo cuff links are highly desired by those that love beautiful jewelry, as well as those that collect all things pertaining to native American art.

The most extraordinary culture of jewelry-making in North America belongs to the Navajo Indians. After the Navajo learned silversmithing from the Spanish in the 1800's, master jewelry skills emerged in their society. Soon beautifully crafted ornaments, began to appear at Indian trading posts throughout the southwestern U.S.

Prior to 1920, the Navajo jewelers got the silver and gold they required to make Navajo jewelry by melting down U.S. coins. When available turquoise was the primary stone they used to compliment their creations, but other stones such as coral, fire opals, lapis, pink shell, and onyx were also used. Engraving and stamping was accomplished by a chisel, awl, and punch. Traditional Navajo jewelry is symmetrical, repetitive and balanced in design. Contrary to popular belief, early authentic Navajo jewelry would rarely include design work with rain clouds, tepees, arrowheads, buffaloes or other such trite symbols. Navajo cuff links and other jewelry incorporating such designs only began to appear as the demand for Navajo artwork increased.

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Important Note: The following are auction listings, over which this site has no control with respect to their authenticity as genuine Navajo crafted cuff links. Some may be Navajo "style", which is fine, if that is what you are looking to purchase. Please read the listings then make your own decisions, and buy from reputable sellers with high feedback ratings.

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