Lee Yazzie
American, 1946
Navajo artist, Lee Yazzie, is one of the leading Native American designers and craftsmen in the field today. Both of Lee’s parents were traditional Navajo silversmiths and he grew up observing their style and designs. Over twenty years ago, Lee Yazzie made the decision to pursue quality over quality and therefore produces less than 10 individual pieces each year. He draws on traditional Navajo elements and with contemporary flair combines 14K gold and sterling silver, set with turquoise, coral, lapis, and other gemstones as he designs each unique piece. His pieces have been elected to remain in the permanent collection of the Indian Arts and Crafts Board, part of the U.S. Department of Interior and he has garnered various awards including the coveted “Best of Show” various times at the Annual Intertribal Ceremonial in Gallup, New Mexico. Numerous issues of Arizona Highways have featured Lee’s work and he has been included in several authoritative books on Native American jewelry including Beyond Traditions by Jerry and Lois Jacka, Enduring Traditions by Jerry and Lois Jacka, Navajo Indian Jewelry by Jerry and Lois Jacka, North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment by Lois Dubin, and Southwestern Indian Jewelry by Dexter Cirillo.
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