Apache Sterling Silver Spiral Pin by Jan Loco [SOLD]

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Jan Loco, Apache Jeweler

Artist Jan Loco became interested in Apache symbolism and legend when, as a young adult, she discovered her Native American 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.

This textured sterling silver pin could have several interpretations—a snail, a serpent, a petroglyph spiral design.  We will not speculate the intent of artist Jan Loco but will just accept it as a beautiful pin that evokes motion. 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 silver as she skillfully cut and shaped the silver creating wearable art that seem to flow like water.

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.   The pin is stamped Loco.


Condition: this Apache Sterling Silver Spiral Pin by Jan Loco is in original condition

Provenance: from a gentleman from Colorado

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


Jan Loco, Apache Jeweler
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