Melvin Francis & Lester James
Navajo silversmith Melvin Francis is a very well-known contemporary silversmith. His style is simple yet elegant silverwork with colorful stones. He does many kinds of silver work including overlay and traditional stampwork. He gives credit to his father, Ted Francis, as his teacher. He comes from a family of artists: He is related to Fred Francis, a silversmith (uncle), Myrtle Francis (sister), Marlynn Francis (sister), weaver Melvina Francis (sister), weaver Erma Francis (mother), and weaver Anna Clyde (aunt).
Navajo silversmith Lester James is not only making wearable art he is excelling at it. Some of his designs are very original and the rawness of the work comes off as part of the art. Lester James is a true artist, with every detail and each small cut of the stones makes a unique item. Lester is known for using only the finest stones. He works with other silversmiths, including Melvin Francis.
