Hey y all I’m a Native American silversmiths from in and around the OBX specializing in us mined turquoise and shell. I just wanted to share a few of my OBX inspired pieces. Hope y, all dig it!
### Celebrating Native American Silversmithing: An OBX Inspired Journey
Hello, everyone! As a Native American silversmith from the beautiful Outer Banks (OBX), I am excited to share my journey and some of my creations with you. In our culture, every piece of jewelry we craft tells a story, and my work is no different. My pieces are inspired by the rich heritage of my people, the serene beauty of the OBX, and the vibrant materials sourced right from our land.
#### The Essence of Native American Silversmithing
Silversmithing holds a special place in Native American culture. Traditionally, it was a means of crafting practical items, but over time, it evolved into a form of art expressing identity, spirituality, and connection to nature. My approach to silversmithing is deeply personal. Each piece I create is a reflection of my experiences, my environment, and the stories passed down through generations.
Our ancestors used silver as a medium not only for its beauty but also for its perceived spiritual properties. Silver is believed to carry healing energies, and I strive to imbue my creations with that same spirit. My silver is often paired with us-mined turquoise and shell, two materials that hold significant cultural meaning and aesthetic value in Native American artistry.
#### Materials That Tell a Story
The use of turquoise in Native American jewelry is iconic. This stone is not just vibrant in color; it is also powerful in symbolism. Turquoise represents harmony, protection, and connection to the earth. I source my turquoise from mines right here in the United States, ensuring not only its authenticity but also its quality. Each piece of turquoise I select has its own character, veining, and coloring, mirroring the natural landscapes of my homeland.
Shells are equally significant in my work. The Outer Banks, known for its pristine beaches, offers an array of beautiful shells that inspire many of my pieces. Each shell tells a tale of the ocean’s timeless ebb and flow, carrying with it the essence of the sea. Incorporating these shells into my jewelry pays homage to the natural beauty of OBX and draws inspiration from the life that surrounds us—from the waves crashing on the shore to the warmth of the sun setting over the horizon.
#### OBX Inspired Creations
I’ve created several pieces that embody the spirit of the Outer Banks, and I would love to share a few of them with you.
1. **The Coastal Sunset Necklace**: This piece features a striking turquoise stone set in a delicate silver setting, crafted to resemble the gentle waves of the ocean. This necklace captures the colors of a beautiful Outer Banks sunset, with the turquoise symbolizing the sea and the silver representing the sandy shores. It is a reminder of the tranquil moments spent by the water’s edge, allowing wearers to carry a piece of that serenity with them.
2. **Shell and Silver Pendant**: Utilizing a beautiful conch shell I found on the beaches of the OBX, this pendant is both a statement piece and a token of my connection to both the ocean and my heritage. The shell is framed in silver, blending contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship. Wearing this pendant evokes memories of beach strolls and the calming sounds of the surf.
3. **Turquoise Wave Bracelet**: This bracelet combines several small, polished turquoise stones reminiscent of ocean waves, linked together with delicate silver bands. Each stone symbolizes a wave, a connection to the ocean’s rhythm, and a reminder of the flow of life. When worn, it provides not just a stylish accent but also a sense of groundedness, reminding me of the tides of my ancestry and the tides of life.
4. **The Driftwood Dreamcatcher Earrings**: Inspired by the shapes of driftwood that washes ashore, these earrings feature a combination of polished shell fragments and silver, each piece symbolizing the hopes and dreams that drift in and out of our lives. The dreamcatcher elements are incorporated with an artisanal touch that reflects both the spirit of the OBX and the rich heritage of my Native American roots.
#### The Cultural Connection
When I create my jewelry, I am not only crafting for aesthetic appeal but also creating a bridge between my culture and the world. Each piece I make is infused with tradition and respect for my ancestors, honoring the techniques they perfected. Furthermore, by using materials from the land, I acknowledge our deep-rooted connection to the environment and the importance of sustainability in our practices.
As I share my work, I hope to foster appreciation for Native American artistry, encouraging dialogue and understanding. Jewelry is more than an accessory; it is a vessel of history, culture, and identity. By wearing a piece of jewelry that reflects Native American heritage, one becomes part of that ongoing story.
#### Conclusion: A Journey of Craftsmanship and Connection
In conclusion, I invite you to explore the beauty and meaning behind each piece I create. My journey as a Native American silversmith is one of passion, heritage, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the Outer Banks. By incorporating us-mined turquoise and the cherished shells of our coastline, I strive to create jewelry that resonates with the essence of nature and the spirit of our culture.
Thank you for allowing me to share my work and my story with you. I hope you find inspiration in these pieces as I do in crafting them. Each creation is meant to connect the wearer with the land, the ocean, and the stories of our ancestors, creating a tapestry woven with history, beauty, and culture. I hope you dig it as much as I do!
