J1931 Herbert Ration
Sterling silver ring by Navajo silversmith Herbert Ration. The 3/4” x 1 3/4” Spider is composed of a Malecite body, Jasper head and Carnelian eyes. Size 8
In some southwestern tribes flies were considered messengers or credited with bringing the first fire to the people.
About the Silversmith
Navajo artist and silversmith Herbert Ration creates both traditional and contemporary designs including his distinctive and colorful bug pins. Herbert, originally from Crownpoint, NM, has been designing jewelry for over 40 years, learning his craft from his grandfather, Jimmy Ration. Herbert is a celebrated artist and has become known for his unique creatures, primary those with exoskeletons, created with care.
About the artist
Herbert Ration
Born on April 23rd 1959,Herbert Ration was born & raised in Crownpoint, which is between Albuquerque & Gallup NM & right in the heart of the Navajo reservation.. Herbert still calls this his home & like others on the rez, he had a traditional Navajo upbringing & has always been surrounded by jewelry artists.
Beginning as far back to the 1800's, Herbert is a 9th generation metalsmith.. But it was his father that told him "If you make jewelry, you will always have enough money to survive" & that's exactly what he did! At the young age of only 10,he started by helping his mother & father with pieces they were making & between their influence & trial & error, Herbert has now grown to be one of the Navajo's most respected artists.
Now having over a 1/2 century of artistry under his belt, he is widely known for his beetle, spider and dragonfly pins. When I asked him "When did you come up with this style"? "It came to me in a dream" he told me & has been guided & has followed that dream ever since! Creativity flows through Herbert's veins & will not create until the time is right, his mind & soul are aligned & all his creative juices are flowing! I am honored to call him a friend & to carry his wonderfully created wearable art jewelry.