14K Gold Ring with Inlays of Mediterranean Coral
by Andy Lee Kirk (1947-2001), Isleta Pueblo and Navajo
14K gold, Mediterranean coral stones
size 7, .5" wide
Isleta Pueblo and Navajo jeweler Andy Lee Kirk (1947 - 2001) learned the basics of jewelry making at the University of New Mexico where he received a degree in Biology. He continued to make jewelry while employed by first the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service, then the Forest Service. The artist's call was stronger than that of his other interests, and eventually Andy became a full-time jeweler.
Influenced by Hopi artist Charles Loloma and Navajo jeweler Gibson Nez, Kirk was versatile and prolific. He did lapidary work, including rolling his own beads, and had mastered all types of precious metalwork including lost wax and sandcast techniques, stamping, engraving, overlay and fabrication. He taught these techniques to his daughter Melanie, as well as his brother Michael.
When asked where he got the ideas for his jewelry styles, he said "From my Indian heritage…what I see all around me. I have a hundred and fifty more ideas in mind. They are yet to come."
Kirk was awarded the IACA Artist of the Year in 1996 and won many awards at the SWIA Indian Market in Santa Fe, N.M. including First Place and Best in Division.
