Is Your Native American Jewelry Valuable? Here's How to Tell

If you’ve ever held a turquoise bracelet or a silver concho belt and thought,“This looks old — is it worth something?”You’re asking the right question.

Authentic Native American jewelry is one of the most collectible—and most misunderstood—categories in the art world. The value can range from a few dollars to several thousand, depending on the piece's origin, craftsmanship, and authenticity.

So let’s break it down. Here’s how to tell what’s real, what matters, and what to look out for.

1. Tribal Style & Craftsmanship

Not all Native American jewelry is the same. Each tribe has its own aesthetic traditions and construction methods:

• Navajo: Heavy silver, large turquoise stones, sand-cast forms

• Zuni: Precise stone inlay, small clusters, intricate design

• Hopi: Overlay technique with oxidized background, often abstract or symbolic

• Apache: Often blends silverwork with cultural symbolism

  
  

If a piece feels too symmetrical, light, or mass-produced—it might not be tribal at all.

2. Materials Matter

Authentic Native American jewelry typically features:

• Natural turquoise, coral, jet, or shell

• Sterling silver, hand-sawn and stamped

• Visible tool marks and hand-wrought textures

Watch out for:

• Dyed Howlite posing as turquoise

• Nickel silver or plated alloys (no real value)

• Machine stamping instead of handwork

3. Maker’s Marks & Hallmarks

Many Native American silversmiths—especially after the 1970s—signed their work. Look for:

• Initials or full names stamped on the back

• Tribal hallmarks or regional marks

• Well-known artists like Tommy Singer or Charles Loloma—their work can fetch thousands at auction

No signature doesn’t mean it’s fake, but a signature can dramatically increase value.

4. Tourist vs. Traditional Work

There’s a world of difference between authentic tribal jewelry and souvenirs made for the tourist market.

Real pieces tend to show:

• Hand-inlay or bezel-set stones

• Handmade clasps and solder marks

• Natural patina (not just fake aging)

Tourist jewelry is often lighter, flashier, and may use plastic or synthetic stones.

5. Age ≠ Value — But It Helps

Pieces from the 1920s–1940s with provenance are especially collectible. However, modern masterwork can be just as valuable—especially when made by recognized artists.

The bottom line: authenticity + quality = value.

Need Help With a Native American Jewelry Appraisal?

Whether you're handling an estate, curious about a thrift store find, or looking to insure a family heirloom, I can help.

Visit our Native American Jewelry Appraisal page to learn more or reach out here to schedule a personal review.