Modernist Inlay Dangle Earrings
by Boyd Tsosie, Navajo
sterling silver cobbled inlay of fossilized walrus ivory, natural turquoise, Mediterranean coral, and lapis
1 3/8" long x 3/8" wide
Renowned contemporary jeweler Boyd Tsosie draws inspiration from the rich heritage of his Navajo traditions. Born in 1954, he has been making jewelry since he was sixteen years of age. Kenneth Begay, a teacher at the Navajo Community College on the Navajo Reservation, inspired Boyd at a young age. Boyd gives credit to Kenneth for teaching him his trade.
Over the years, Boyd has developed a contemporary style of work in both sterling silver and 14K gold combined with turquoise, coral, lapis, and sugilite. Being given the rights and prayers by his elders to create his innovative pieces, Boyd feels he is creating “tomorrow’s tradition” in Navajo jewelry. Boyd's signature style is the "cobbled" technique, where he inlays circular stones into a stone background creating a cobblestone effect.
Boyd's work can be found in important private and public collections including the Smithsonian's Museum of the American Indian, the Heard Museum, and the British Museum. His work has been featured on the cover of Native American Art Magazine, and is featured in the publications Navajo Indian Jewelry and Enduring Traditions by Jerry and Lois Jacka and North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment by Lois Dubin.
