Silver Apache Spiral Earrings and Pin SET called “Wisdom” by Jan Loco [SOLD]

This SET of Apache spiral earrings and pin reflects the unequaled creative artistry of Jan Loco. As she is no longer making jewelry, her work is eagerly sought by collectors. The spiral form she used to shape this unique set of earrings and pin is called “Wisdom.” Spiral designs have been used by people worldwide since ancient times. For Southwestern Natives, the spiral represents and honors water, which to desert dwellers, is necessary for life. Her reverence for the natural world is apparent in the crafting of these pieces as she skillfully cut and shaped the silver creating wearable art that seem to flow like water.  The earrings are fitted with clip-on fasteners.

Jan Loco became interested in Apache symbolism and legend when, as a young adult, she discovered her Apache ancestry. Her jewelry designs were inspired by the stories of her ancestors, incorporating symbols and motifs reflecting the heavens, Apache legends as well as plants and animals of the Apache homeland.

Her unique method of creating jewelry without power tools is a laborious task, but she felt it honored her ancestry to use items of nature rather than power tools. Using only heavy duty shears, she cut and fashioned the silver to the desired shape, after which she hammered it with a specially selected rock until she achieved the texture she desired. In this set, the pin is smooth and the earrings are textured. The earrings are signed with J.LOCO and the pin has “Wisdom” engraved along with the artist’s name.

Condition: The Silver Apache Spiral Earrings and Pin SET called "Wisdom" by Jan Loco is in excellent condition

Provenance: From a jewelry collection from Colorado

Recommended Reading: Indian Jewelry of the American Southwest by Sarah Peabody and William Turnbaugh

Images Reference: American Indian Jewelry II: A-L 1800 Artist Biographies by Gregory and Angie Schaaf.  Signature - hallmark photos courtesy of Gregory Schaaf.  Photo of Jan Loco by Sabine.

Relative Links: Jewelry SET, Earrings, Southwest Indian Jewelry, Pin, Apache, Jan Loco