| Cherokee Jewelry Copper was an important trade item for the Cherokee Indians, well before the arrival of the Europeans. Their villages were near large copper mines, and therefore, knew how to mine copper and to work it using a cold- hammer method. They used copper to make Indian jewelry designs, arrow points, tools, and cooking utensils. When Europeans arrived on the continent, the Cherokee traded copper for the items they needed, such as those made of silver, iron and steel. Silver jewelry smithing replaced the “cold hammer” method of making metal jewelry, and the colorful and durable Czech seed beads brought by the Europeans became an important ingredient in Cherokee jewelry. Cherokee Indian jewelry makers today usually incorporate colorful seed beads into necklace designs. Copyright 2012 Among today's native jewelry makers are Andrea and Mary Tidwell, who make traditional Cherokee beaded necklaces. (Available in our online shop). |
