Artisans Way, 18 Walden Street in Concord, will be hosting Sandia East, a Native American Jewelry retailer for their annual trunk show. Saturday, October 15 & Sunday, October 16, Diane Whitman from Sandia East will be in the gallery showcasing hundreds of Native American jewelry pieces and hand carved spirit animal fetishes from the Southwest.
For over 35 years, Diane has been involved in the Native American jewelry industry. Now, as owner of Sandia East, she travels to New Mexico several times per year and hand-selects each piece from jewelry made by members of Native American tribes. Cuff and bangle bracelets, earrings, pendants, and rings, are all made of solid sterling silver in the tradition of the Navajo Nation. Beaded heishi necklaces are designed by the natives of the Santo Domingo Pueblo using local stones and shells. Earrings, bracelets, and pendants featuring stone setting and inlays, are created by the Zuni tribe members. This work is related to a prehistoric technique of setting turquoise, shell, or jet on a base of wood, bone, or shell.
The Zunis are also known for creating hand-carved animal fetishes. The fetishes, said to house a spirit which can give assistance to the owner, have been used by southwestern Native Americans since prehistoric times. Beads of shell, coral or turquoise, feathers, or a small carved arrow may be tied to these animals to increase their power or as offerings to the fetish in return for favors granted.
A collection this extensive, of unmatched quality and variety, is rarely found outside of Native American territory. The public is invited to this free event from 10am – 6pm on Saturday and 12pm – 5pm on Sunday. During the trunk show, all Native American jewelry purchases will be discounted 10%. For additional information or details, please call (978) 369-4400 or go to artisansway@verizon.net.