Friday, April 23, 2010

A Glimpse of History: The Gallup Indian Jewelry Co.

The cover and inside double page shown above are from a company now long gone from Gallup. The catalog is not dated, but I think it is from the 1950's. The introductory paragraphs read:

"In 1865, when the Indians first began to make Indian Jewelry, the Charles Ilfeld Company was founded. This pioneer firm is the parent organization of the Gallup Indian Jewelry Company. Their reputation for fine quality quality and high standards is illustrated and amplified by these outstanding lines of jewelry and other Indian creations from Gallup, The Indian Capital of the World.

Since the days of the Spanish Conquistadores, the Indian silversmith has wrought the symbols of his customs on Silver Jewelry and other forms of art.

Today, due to his unique skill, the American Indian is entirely self supporting"