New Mexico (Books, Fine Art and Estates)
New Mexico has a rich history of fine art along with it’s unique Spanish Colonial and adobe style architecture. Much of the southwest arts and crafts reflect the beautiful desert landscape and Native American and early American heritage. We are always on the hunt for New Mexico books, Native American pottery, silver turquoise jewelry, other jewelry, handmade dream-catchers, handwoven baskets, rugs and tapestry, moccasins and leather clothing, and other quality arts and crafts.
We try to make a trip or two every year to the area (Taos, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, etc.) in search of new and interesting things. We are always willing to make an extra trip for extraordinary collections and estates as we enjoy experience the southwestern culture and cuisine. Please Contact Us if you have an estate or collection you have an interest in selling.
Silver and Turquoise Jewelry
Turquoise (the gemstone / mineral) has a fascinating history dating back thousands of years. It has long been used by many cultures throughout the world and was often the preferred choice for kings, queens, nobility and tribal leaders. Egyptians, Aztecs, Native Americans, Europeans, Tibetans, Chinese and other cultures often used it to decorate their attire and dwellings.
It’s easy to see why silver turquoise jewelry is sought after. The contrasting colors, patina, amazing style, detail and often the story and artist behind the pieces all bring together some wonderful works of fashion and art. Native Americans originally discovered turquoise around 2,000 – 2,200 years ago. They believed it possessed a great power and was often used in ceremonies and carried as amulets. Native Americans began making silver turquoise jewelry (pictured above) in the mid-1800’s after the Navajo were introduced to silversmithing.
Southwestern Pottery and Crafts
Southwest arts and crafts have been used for daily life and as a form of trade for many centuries. Pottery, hides for clothing and blankets, rugs, fabrics, weapons (knives, spears, arrows, etc.), turquoise and jewelry, and other handmade crafts made up a large portion of the early American economy. Now, many of these items have become scarce and there is a good market for historic, antique, vintage and some newer southwest crafts.