Glittering World

Glittering World tells the remarkable story of Navajo jewelry--from its ancient origins to the present--through the work of the gifted Yazzie family of New Mexico. Jewelry has long been an important form of artistic expression for Native peoples in the Southwest; its diversity of design reflects a long history of migrations, trade, and cultural exchange. Exceptional jewelry makers who have been active for nearly eight decades, the Yazzies are strongly rooted in and inspired by these traditions and values. Their works emphasize reciprocity, harmony, balance, and respect for family.

As the companion volume to the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian in New York exhibit of the same name, this book is richly illustrated with images of these beautifully crafted treasures, bringing to light some of the finest indigenous art being created in the world today. Its informative and lively narrative complements these stunning images to illuminate the fascinating story of continuity, change, and survival embodied by Navajo jewelry.

LOIS SHERR DUBIN is the author of The History of Beads: From 100,000 B.C. to the Present (2009) and Adornment: The Art of Barbara Natoli Witt (2011). She has also curated exhibitions on Native American beadwork and jewelry.

Preface: Manuelito Wheeler
Foreword: Kevin Gover
Introduction: Lois Sherr Dubin
Sandpainting, Spanish Bridles, and Trader’s Turquoise: Cultural and Historic Influences
Tradition and Transformation: The Yazzie Family
Sunrise, Sunset: Raymond C. Yazzie
Passion for Perfection: Raymond C. Yazzie
Contemporary Traditional: The Yazzie Sisters
Returning to the Hogan
Afterword: John Haworth
Acknowledgments
Notes and References
Glossary
Major Awards
Bibliography
Index
Photography Credits