I am trying to be ethical.
In the 1980’s I was educated by Navajo craftsmen in how to make cabochons and jewelry. Where to purchase high quality supplies. Have been doing it ever since.
I market my items as Southwest Style or Navajo Style.
I am part Native American, but not Navajo.
Am still using materials purchased in the 1980’s on or near the Navajo Reservation.
Some materials I made under the guidance of others.
The materials include hand carved fetishes, heishi beads, Turquoise cabs, natural red coral cabs, hand made sterling settings, ring blanks and embellishments, hand made/machine made sterling beads and others.
I try to be up front with everything I make. All pieces include a tag stating the materials used.
I do not use a hallmark on any pieces. I do include a Sterling stamp purchased in the 1980’s on Sterling pieces.
I had some great teachers, hopefully evident by my profile avitar. I made the ring.
After following a recent discussion here, I was forced to ask this question.
Is what I am doing ethical? I love making this style of jewelry. Also make some more modern styles, but using what I was taught to do long ago, is the most rewarding.
I have hoped that no one who purchases any of my creations tries to market them as Navajo.
Any thoughts appreciated.