Overlay Jewelry of the Southwest

Native American overlay jewelry is a unique type jewelry that consists of two layers of silver connected together to make pattens which flows from the first piece to the second. This type of jewelry is very popular and highly collectable. The technique is used by many southwestern tribes to create incredibly distinctive silver patterns. The top silver plating beautifully works against the blackened silver areas giving it a very distinctive bold appearance.

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Hopi Jewelry
Inlay Jewelry
Hopi Symbols
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Overlays are made using two sheets of sterling silver. The silversmith creates and cuts the designs from the top layer or sheet. The artist then oxidizes the appropriate areas of the bottom layer or sheet of sterling silver. The two layered sheets are then bond together with special welding techniques. Finally craftsmen removes the precut designs from the first step on the panel of silver.

Among many unique styles, overlay jewelry is the most popular form of Jewelry within the The Hopi Native American tribe. The overlay techniques and workmanship are top notch. Each overlay pattern is usually very crisp and fine. The Hopi express religious beliefs, ideas, and simple signs of beauty through the Symbols they use in their jewelry.