From the Massachusetts Historical Society.
The Navajo people are known for several exquiste art forms, such as their weaving and pottery, but their crafting of one-of-a-kind jewelry works in silver, turquoise, coral, and other semi-precious stones stands out as a particularly unique contribution amongst indigenous cultures. The classic style is undeniably recognizable and has a powerful presence.
In my work as a modern day jewelry artist, I primarily utilize old world Navajo silver-smithing technique that was passed on to me via a 3 and a half year apprenticeship with a man who was known as Starsparks (or Sparks), who learned from his teacher and friend from Taos Pueblo in New Mexico back in the 70’s. Though I don’t know who that man’s teacher was, the general method is known as fabrication. In jewelry metalwork (before precious metal clay) gold and silver jewelry was generally made by either fabrication or lost wax casting.
Fabrication, though the term applies to other industries as well, means you are building the piece; sawing shapes out or sheet, texturing, stamping, layering, bending and twisting wire, and soldering it all together, layer by layer. Nowadays artist have access to wonderful materials such as patterned wire, fancy gallery bezel wire, and tiny 3-D stampings that add fantastic accents to your jewelry works.
Lost wax casting in jewelry making involves creating an actual sculpture in lost wax wich is done by dripping and carving the wax with some special tools, then a mold is then created for that piece. Once a mold or multiple molds are created (which could theoretically be created off of an actual piece of jewelry), then the pieces are cast in a kiln. The obvious advantage to casting is you can make multiple reproductions at any time. Plus, the look can be very sculptural and 3 dimensional (which is cool for realism if that’s what your going for).
You can also incorporate cast elements in a fabricated piece. I do this once in a while and really enjoy the combination. Personally, I have infinitely more experience with fabrication method and enjoy the hand-worked effect it creates and the fact that no two pieces are ever the same. (though I try with earrings most of the time, teehee)
In the year to come, by popular demand, I will be developing a few lines of very affordable cast pendants that have some of the powerful symbolism that I hold dear. Symbols such as the Tree, The Phoenix, and Heart with Wings. To maintain the look and feel of my unique artistry, I will be casting reproductions of original handcrafted fabricated pieces. Its time I finally do this. Lets spread the good medicine around to more people….
