Second Mesa is famous for its coiled plaques, while Third Mesa is best known for its wicker plaques. Hopi are the greatest consumers of their own basketry which serve a variety of everyday and ceremonial functions. For example, as a part of the traditional Hopi wedding ceremony, plaques are made by the bride's family for the groom's family. These plaques are repayment for the bridal robes woven by the men of the groom's family. Hopi Jewelry Hopi life and religion are reflected in our jewelry.
Designs have a religious or secular meaning and can be highly symbolic or realistic.
Designs are usually based on ancient sources such as potshards, petroglyphs, or Katsinas. The Hopi have been making silver jewelry since the 1900's but the overlay technique, which is now characteristic of most Hopi jewelry, was introduced only in the mid 1950's. The design is cut out of a flat piece of silver, overlaid onto a separate sheet of silver, and the design background is textured and oxidized to turn it black. Often stones such as jet, coral, or turquoise add emphasis to the outstanding silvercraft. To insure authenticity, Hopi jewelry is marked by the artist's clan, signature, or village.