Sterling silver hand stamped and silver appliqué pendant by noted silversmith Etta Endito. The 1 3/4” x 2 1/2” pendant with a 1” bale has a 1” x 1 3/4” Carico Lake turquoise stone.
Carico Lake is a turquoise that comes from a large active mine in Nevada. In the last twenty years it has been mined sporadically so it is a relatively scarce turquoise. The green and blue-green spider web turquoise has a unique matrix and is one of the finest turquoise in North America. The colors and scarcity of Carico Lake turquoise make it a valuable addition to any collection.
Navajo silversmith Etta Endito has been making jewelry since 1980. She and her husband Randy Endito both helped their mothers in their jewelry making after school. Both of their mothers were skilled silversmiths. Etta and Randy have immense respect for their parents and are appreciative for the skills that was passed on to them. Etta says they are proud to making jewelry that is made in America by Native Americans.
About the artist
Etta Endito
Etta and Randy Endito have been making jewelry together since 1980. Etta from Crownpoint, New Mexico and Randy from Smith Lake, New Mexico met in 1978.
As children both Etta and Randy learned the art of silversmithing from their mothers. Etta and Randy both helped their mothers in their jewelry making after school. Both mothers were very good silversmiths. Etta has a piece of jewelry that her father made years ago, which she treasures. Etta and Randy have enormous of respect for their parents and are grateful for the lessons they learned.
Randy shapes and stamps the silver. Etta creates the designs and patterns. Etta says, “We are proud to be making jewelry. This is something we still make in America, by Americans. Buy Native American Made!”
Etta's silverwork has been featured in the Indian Craft Shop, at the Department of Interior, in Washington, DC. She is one of eight Native American artists chosen from throughout the United States for this honor.
The Endito family is a true team, loving and respectful of one another.
