An Ornament from Grand Canyon for Your Tree

As a keepsake of the Southwest, consider selecting a unique ornament from Grand Canyon for lifetime memories of the unusual rock formation and the world that has existed around it for centuries.

Ornamental silver jewelery that reflects the true spirit of the land and its people is handcrafted by the Navaho Indians. With a primitive forge, the Navaho Indians create beautiful ornaments and personal adornments from genuine silver. Navaho silversmiths may be found throughout New Mexico and Arizona. Equipped with a mud forge, primitive bellows, a railroad steel anvil, a three-cornered file, a hammer and a punch or two, the Navaho craftsman creates incredible silver pieces that are like nothing else in the world. Many designs can be found at Verkamp's in Grand Canyon Village.

The most cherished objects created by the Navaho are necklaces and waist-belts made from eight molded plates. The designs featured on waist-belts and necklaces include crosses, hollow beads and ornaments that represent pomegranate blossoms. Eye-catching bracelets and rings of great value are handcrafted and embellished with gems such as garnet and turquoise. One of the objects of the highest esteem created by the Navaho is the silver bridle. The curious design features heavy clasps of silver fastened on leather with numerous buttons shaped from coins and may weigh up to forty ounces.

Selecting a Christmas ornament from Grand Canyon captures the essence of this rock formation and the life that exists around it. Another priceless souvenir to purchase at the Grand Canyon are the unusual, handmade blankets created by the Indians. While the majority of Navaho women do the weaving, in the Pueblo culture weaving is predominantly performed by the men. Visitors can visit the Hopi House and see Navaho women and Hopi men weaving durable, striking blankets and articles of clothing from natural materials on old-fashioned looms made from four poles cut from trees. Choosing a handmade blanket created by Hopi or Navaho Indians is an ideal way to remember a trip to the Grand Canyon.

Instead of buying breakable plastic souvenirs from a gift shop, consider an ornament from Grand Canyon to remember the trip.

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