J1946 Calvin Martinez
Sterling silver naja by Navajo silversmith Calvin Martinez. The 1 5/8`” x 2 1/8” hand stamped naja has a 3/4” x 1” intricate concho style drop. The bale makes a total length of 2 3/4".
It is thought that the naja came to Mexico via the Spanish Moors and from there was adopted by the Navajo Indians. The naja is the base pendant of many ornate squash blossom necklaces
About the artist
Calvin Martinez
Award winning Navajo silversmith Calvin Martinez, born 1960, has been an active silversmith for over 30 years. Calvin, a self-taught silversmith, says "I look to the old silversmiths and to my culture. There would not be a Calvin Martinez silversmith without the Navajo tradition to guide me. I am grateful that people still like the old silver pieces. I thank God for awarding me with these gifted hands."
Everything is made by hand, including hand cutting his bezels. He is known for using only the highest quality natural stones and heavy gauge silver in his work. The style of work that Calvin does is commonly referred to as Traditional Revival.
Calvin’s jewelry is made with traditional old techniques, he makes everything by hand, including hand cutting his bezels. He only uses high quality natural stones in his work.
Calvin Martinez crates his jewelry in the pure style of the first Navajo silversmiths. His clear, substantial pieces, featuring the best gem grade turquoise, speak eloquently of the very nature of the Navajo: unassuming people with strong convictions about their place within the balance of nature. Calvin brings this attitude of quiet strength to each of his creations.
