Checkerboard Inlay Dangle Earrings by Abraham Begay, Navajo

Checkerboard Inlay Dangle Earrings
by Abraham Begay, Navajo
inlays of iron wood and opal, sterling silver
5/8” high x 5/8” wide

Abraham Begay was born in 1953 in Ganado, AZ and currently lives in Flagstaff, Arizona. Abraham has been making jewelry since the 1970s and is regarded among the top contemporary Navajo (Dine) silversmiths.

Abraham Begay’s style and talents are very diverse. He has mastered the silversmithing techniques of overlay and stamping, with a great deal of precision that results in very unique designs. However, what sets him apart from his peers is most likely his distinct lapidary (inlay) work.

Abraham uses bright colors and quality, high grade stones in every piece. His inlay designs often extend beyond the silver edges, as if the inlaid stones are growing out of the piece itself. This is a very difficult technique and results in colorful edges that boldly contrast the traditional silverwork beneath.