Koinva Belt Buckles and Bolo Ties Boloties

Anderson and Berna Koinva
Belt Buckles and Bolo Ties Boloties

sedonawolf photo

Prior to the late 1930's, overlay jewelry did not exist in the Southwest. It was created
to set Hopi jewelry apart from Navajo... at that time (late 1930's) both had a traditional,
early Spanish influence (Conquistadores).

Overlay jewelry was a giant step forward for Hopi jewelry. It was so popular a design feature that now,
the use of silver overlay is widespread among Southwest Native American silversmiths from all tribes.

However, Hopi Overlay jewelry retains a very distinctive look that, for the most part, has gone
un-copied. Look closely at the lower layer of silver... that precisely carved incising is a difficult
and time consuming process. Also, you'll find that Hopi jewelry incorporates
symbols and patterns particular to the Hopi people.

Berna and Anderson Koinva Hallmark

Berna and Anderson Koinva Hallmark

Berna and Anderson are among the top artists creating in the Hopi Overlay style.
Hopi Overlay was first created by Paul Saufkie and Fred Kaboutie in the late 1930's.

However, the Koinva's designs are very much their own. Berna and Anderson draw
from nature and their own beliefs... for example designs like Deer foot prints in
Lightning and the beautiful Water Bird..