Al Nez
Al Nez, born in 1959, was a distinguished Navajo jeweler celebrated for his innovative designs that seamlessly blended traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics. As a member of the Many Goats Clan, with his father belonging to the Bitterwater Clan, Nez drew profound inspiration from his rich Navajo heritage. He began exploring silversmithing at a young age, influenced by his grandfather’s craftsmanship, and developed a unique style characterized by the fusion of traditional Navajo symbols with modern design elements.
Nez was renowned for his mastery of the tufa casting technique, a meticulous process involving carving designs into porous volcanic stone to create molds for molten metal. This method allowed him to produce distinctive, one-of-a-kind pieces, often combining 14k gold with sterling silver and adorning them with gemstones such as natural turquoise, coral, lapis, and sugilite.
Throughout his career, Nez received numerous accolades, including awards at the Annual Intertribal Ceremonial in Gallup, New Mexico, where he was recognized for “Best of Tufa Casting,” and at the Indian Market in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he earned “Best of Miniatures.” His work is part of the permanent collection of the Indian Arts and Crafts Board under the U.S. Department of the Interior and has been featured in publications such as Arizona Highways and authoritative books on Native American jewelry, including Beyond Traditions, Enduring Traditions, Navajo Jewelry, and Southwest Indian Art.
Nez’s exceptional jewelry continues to be showcased at esteemed galleries, including Faust Gallery, which specializes in museum-quality American Indian and contemporary art. His legacy endures through the timeless pieces that reflect his dedication to craftsmanship and his ability to honor Navajo traditions while embracing contemporary design.
