I LOVE jewelry! Really, my motto is: A woman can never have too much jewelry. I collect and create and have enough jewelry to open a store. Native American jewelry, especially silver and turquoise, is my favorite. And every time I stop at the Jacob Lake Inn for either home-made cookies or a milkshake, or both, I have to go into the gift shop to see if anything new has arrived.
Several years ago a lady I worked with wore a beautiful piece which I coveted that she’d bought at Jacob Lake. Several seasons in a row I drooled over a similar piece, and then last year it disappeared. I kicked myself for not buying it. The other day when I stopped by there were two new pieces much like it. These stone inlay rug patterns set in a miniature sterling silver loom are created by Richard Begay who has won many awards for his outstanding work.
Richard was born and raised in Navajoland with five brothers, all known as fine silversmiths. And he just happened to be at the store having just brought in the two pieces, so I met him. A very quiet man, he just smiled when I admired and bought his work.
I am attracted to big when it comes to rings and cuffs, especially with turquoise. This beauty is set with Fox turquoise from a mine located near Lander County, Nevada, which has been closed for quite some time. That makes it even more special and valuable. Unfortunately, I don’t know who the artist is as the stamped signature on the back is “Bea” and something I can’t read. I love to treat myself to special things of beauty.
What have you treated yourself to lately?
Update: Richard S Begay passed away on Saturday, June 1, 2013, in Panguitch, Utah. Richard was a master silversmith, composer and recording artist.
Oh, that store is dangerous! My mum has found several fantastic pieces there. 🙂
I recently treated myself to some sherling-lined leather boots. They were still pricey on clearance, but I know that, come winter, I will wear them all the time.
It’s good to be back in civilization and read your blog again!
Helena, so glad to see you back in the blog world. Yes, that store is dangerous and I’ve spent many a paycheck there. The boots sound warm and comfy.
Love that stuff!
Oh my gush those are pretty!! Do they have an online website?
Kim,USA
Thanks Kim. The link to Jacob Lake Inn is in the post.
Living in an RV, it is a good thing the items you like to collect are small and relatively light weight. lol
So true about collecting small things. I used to collect crockery and rocks.
Looks like you’ve had lots of fun with the grandkids lately. I still can’t seem to comment, but I am reading.
Two totally amazing pieces! WoW!
I am More than Happy Geri.
I do like those rocks on your hand. Very pretty:) I treated myself to an outing at Trader Joe’s….and I bought a more expensive bottle of wine for this weekend:)
Guess I’ll have to check out the Trader Joe’s in Prescott this winter. Haven’t been in one in decades. Wine sounds good. And I do really Like my new rocks.
Good for you~ It’s a beautiful ring and your deserve it and how wonderful to meet the maker!
Oh dear I love Native American jewelry especially earrings, especially earrings with beads and feathers. I could get hurt really badly in the Jacob Lake Inn with cookies AND milkshakes AND Native American Jewelry. All serious weaknesses of mine. Beautiful jewelry. I’d love to see you wearing the cuff. It’s stunning!.
Jacob Lake also sells Native rugs, ceramics and sand-paintings. Really is a delightfully dangerous place to stop. Plus I love their 100% whole wheat pancakes for breakfast. I am now wearing the big cuff after lining it with moleskin to make it fit.
I love that drop with the stone inlay rug pattern it is gorgeous. Big rings just do not survive on my hand, I do too much gardening and then I forget to take them off! Have a good day Diane
Those earrings are beautiful and so is the other piece. I love turquoise.
The few Navajo that I’ve met never have much to say.
The Navajo really are a quiet people. Takes a very long time to get to know them.
Exquisite pieces! I think my last prize purchase was a Zapotec rug from a “back-alley” vendor in Algodones!
Love the rugs. I wanted to buy one in Oaaxaca many years ago but no way to carry it around.
I like jewelry, too, but don’t share the strong attraction you have. My weakness is thrift shops. I like the ring you bought.
I’ve treated myself to….two pairs of shoes. Out of necessity, but one pair is ‘fun’; black flats with a discreet black pom-pom…
Some of my best jewelry deals have come from Thrift shops, which I have an addiction for too. And I already have too many pairs of shoes, or should I say boots and sandals.
I’m not so much into big, but those pieces are stunning. If I ever get to visit I would look for something for me to wear around my neck.