Buying Genuine American Indian Jewelry and Crafts

shopping in a traditional brick and mortar store or online.

Whether you're drawn to the beauty of turquoise and silver jewelry or the earth tones of Indian
pottery, some information about American Indian arts and crafts can help you get what you pay
for. Unfortunately, some unscrupulous retailers are selling imitation American Indian arts and
crafts to unwary consumers.

According to the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990, any item produced after 1935 that is

marketed as "Indian," "Native American" or "Alaska Native" must have been made by a
member of a state or federally-recognized tribe or a certified Indian artisan. That is a non-
member Indian artisan who is certified by the governing body of an Indian tribe.

3 Tips for Buying Genuine American Indian Jewelry & Crafts

1. Buy from an established dealer who gives a written guarantee or written verification of
authenticity. Ask if your item comes with a certification tag. Not all authentic Indian arts and
crafts carry this tag, but those that do are certified by the Department of the Interior (DOI) to be
genuine. This sample tag identifies the artisan as a member of the Oklahoma Indian Arts and
Crafts Cooperative. However, you may see a different name and logo appearing in the circle
on the item you buy.

2. Get a receipt that includes information about the value of your purchase and any verbal
representations by the salesperson. For example, if the salesperson tells you that the piece of
jewelry you're buying is sterling silver and natural turquoise and was handmade by an
American Indian artisan, make sure this information is documented on your receipt.

3. Before buying American Indian arts and crafts at powwows, annual fairs, juried
competitions, and other events, check the event requirements for information about the
authenticity of the products for sale. Many events list their requirements in newspaper ads,
promotional flyers and printed programs. If the event organizers don't say anything about the
authenticity of the American Indian arts and crafts for sale, get written verification for any item
you buy that is sold as authentic.

About The Author

Sam Serio is an Internet Marketer, musician and a writer on the subject of jewelry and
gemstones. For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit
www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of “How To Buy Jewelry And
Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off.” This concise, informative special report reveals almost
everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get
your FREE report at www.morninglightjewelry.com.