HOW TO TELL IF IT’S A FAKE

Discerning Authenticity

How to Differentiate Between Genuine and Imitation Southwestern Jewelry

Southwestern jewelry, with its rich history and cultural significance, is a coveted item among collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike. Originating from the Native American tribes of the Southwestern United States, such as the Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and Santo Domingo, these pieces are not only beautiful but also carry deep spiritual and cultural meanings. However, with the popularity of this jewelry style, the market has seen an influx of imitation pieces that mimic the traditional designs without the authentic craftsmanship. Here’s how to differentiate genuine Southwestern jewelry from its imitations and why consulting a professional appraiser is often the best course of action.

Understanding the Hallmarks of Authentic Southwestern Jewelry

Materials Used:

• Genuine Stones: Authentic Southwestern jewelry typically features natural stones such as turquoise, coral, and various forms of shell. These stones should have a natural, varied appearance, with color inconsistencies and imperfections. Synthetic stones or overly perfect stones are often a sign of imitation.
• Quality of Silver: Sterling silver is the metal of choice for traditional Southwestern jewelry. Authentic pieces are often stamped with "Sterling" or ".925" to denote the purity of the silver. Beware of jewelry that is overly shiny or lacks any markings, as this may indicate the use of inferior metals or plating techniques.

Craftsmanship:

• Handcrafted Features: Genuine Southwestern jewelry shows signs of being handcrafted. This includes slight irregularities in stamp work, asymmetries in stone settings, and variations in carvings. Machine-perfect lines and settings are often indicative of mass-produced pieces.
• Signature Styles: Familiarize yourself with the distinctive styles of each tribe. For instance, Navajo pieces often feature large, singular stones and heavy silver work, Zuni is known for intricate stone inlays, and Hopi jewelry showcases detailed overlay techniques.
• Artisan Signatures: Many authentic Southwestern pieces are signed by the artist. This signature or hallmark is typically found on the back of the piece and can be a key indicator of its authenticity. Familiarizing yourself with notable artisans and their marks is a useful skill for any collector.

Common Red Flags in Imitation Southwestern Jewelry

• Uniformity in Appearance: Mass-produced imitation pieces often lack the unique, handcrafted touch of authentic Southwestern jewelry. Look for uniformity in stone color and shape, which is typical in synthetic materials.
• Low Price Points: If the price seems too good to be true, it likely is. Authentic Southwestern jewelry, made with quality materials and skilled craftsmanship, is generally priced to reflect its quality and heritage.
• Lack of Provenance: Sellers of genuine Southwestern jewelry typically know the origin of their pieces. A lack of information about the piece’s origins can be a warning sign.

The Role of Professional Appraisers

• Expertise: Professional appraisers have the tools and knowledge to test materials accurately and to evaluate craftsmanship quality.
• Verification of Authenticity: Appraisers can often trace the origins of a piece, confirm artisan signatures, and validate the period of manufacture.
• Valuation: Beyond authenticity, appraisers can provide a fair market value for insurance and resale purposes, which is invaluable for both collectors and sellers.

Where We Come In

As a distinguished purveyor of authentic Southwestern jewelry, MashaUSA.com extends an invitation to explore our collection, seamlessly merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary allure. Each piece in our curated selection epitomizes the essence of this time-honored art form, ensuring that every acquisition is not just visually stunning but also imbued with the profound cultural heritage that defines Southwestern jewelry. Experience the legacy firsthand at MashaUSA.com and own a cherished piece of American history.