Sometimes dealers/sellers do not know where items came from or who made them.
Older jewelry is being copied by new artists. The only way to know for sure if something is Native made is by the hallmark, and even some of those are being copied. Sometimes, it is obvious a piece is older if well-worn in certain places. Methods of construction are also helpful.
Some of the same jewelry components that were available over 40 years ago are still available for purchase.
Here are some photos of sandcast bracelets that can be purchased now.
A photo of some silver findings and cabochins I made/purchased in the 1980’s. Some of these findings are still available to purchase.
As more people liquidate their supplies due to age it is becoming hard to know if something is old/authentic or newer.