Harvey Begay 14K Gold Earrings

$3,200.00

Harvey Begay (1939-2009)

Elegant 14k gold earrings by Navajo jeweler Harvey Begay, featuring stylized seashell forms with Anasazi-inspired motifs. Crafted with posts and omega back clips for a secure, comfortable fit, these sculptural earrings reflect Begay’s signature blend of Navajo tradition and modern design.

Dimensions

1″ 1/8th L X 7/8th W

Earrings: Post and omega clips

In Stock

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These elegant 14k gold earrings by renowned Navajo jeweler Harvey Begay showcase his signature blend of traditional cultural symbolism and refined contemporary design. Stylized in the shape of abstract seashells, the earrings incorporate subtle Anasazi-inspired motifs, referencing ancient Southwestern architecture and pottery patterns through graceful, minimalist lines.

Begay, celebrated for his innovative metalwork and modernist approach to Navajo aesthetics, meticulously crafted these earrings with both form and function in mind. The 14k gold surfaces are sculpted to create a fluid, organic contour, giving the earrings a sense of movement and timeless sophistication.

For added comfort and security, Harvey included both posts and omega back clips, making them suitable for pierced ears while ensuring a snug, balanced fit. These earrings are not only a statement of elegance but also a reflection of Harvey Begay’s deep respect for Navajo tradition and his legacy as one of the most influential Native American jewelers of the 20th century.

Harvey Begay (1938-2009) Harvey Begay was born in 1938 in Tuba City, Arizona, the son of Kenneth Begay, who was often referred to as the Charles Loloma of Navajo jewelry. When Kenneth became a partner in The White Hogan, a shop in Scottsdale, Arizona, Harvey attended Scottsdale High while his father worked there. He then went on to graduate from Arizona State University with a degree in Aerospace Engineering in 1961. Harvey became a Navy flight officer and was a test pilot for McDonnell Douglas in St. Louis, testing the Phantom Jet. During one of the test flights, Harvey had to eject from the plane due to electrical power failure and was lucky enough to survive. Following the life-altering plane crash, Harvey’s resilience and dedication to his craft shone through. He felt a strong pull to return to his roots in silversmithing with his Father, leading him to Steamboat, Colorado. In 1979, he made his way back to Phoenix, Arizona, where he began a fruitful collaboration with Lovena Ohl. A memorable moment in the gallery was when Lovena asked Harvey to make sterling silver goblets, and Harvey, who had never made goblets before, initially declined. However, Lovena encouraged him, saying that he was as talented as his father. Harvey eventually made the goblets, and they turned out stunning. Harvey was among the first jewelers to use lost-wax designs with extreme details and create a high-end line of hand-fabricated, one-of-a-kind museum pieces. Over the years, he evolved as a high-end and sophisticated jeweler, exemplifying wearable art. Sadly, Harvey passed away in 2009, leaving behind cherished memories of his exceptional friendship and artistry. Before his passing, he established the “Harvey A. Begay Memorial Scholarship” at Arizona State University. The scholarship helps American Indian undergraduate students pursue their degrees and is still active today. To donate to the scholarship, please contact ASU at 480-727-7448. –William Faust II