JB160 - Sterling Silver and 14k Gold- Artist: Sam Gray - Measurements: 1-1/2"W x 6"Inside Circumference x 1/8"D
"All Navajo Arts come from our life-style and our sprituality. This legacy is handed down from generation to generation. My jewelry-making starts at my Grandmother's place, Aeth-Keedef-Baah. She and my mom came from the Zuni Clan people. They used to make jewelry in the 'good old days'. The heartline bear and the buffalo stamp are the family stamps. After I learned to make jewelry, I started using the patterns and the buffalo stamp as my mark. The more that I learn about traditional ways, the more that I understand; I study more to give me ideas. Even in my dreams, I'm being directed to certain designs which are good for me and my work. I want my work to have a strong sense of harmony and hold a balance between contemporary and traditional jewelry. My overlay storyteller and stone inlay jewelry shows this harmony and balance.
I learned from my Grandmother and Mom. 'I am glad that I learned from them. I thank them a lot.'"
-Sampson Gray, Age 43 born in Pinedale, NM
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