Question 1

What is a Native American artifact?

Accepted Answer

A Native American artifact is any object that provides insight into the lives and history of native people in America. These items range from carved stone pipes, weapons for hunting, tools for cooking, pottery, jewelry and more. Find a collection of artifacts on 1stDibs today.

Question 2

How do I identify Native American beadwork?

Accepted Answer

To identify Native American beadwork, first consider the materials. Indigenous American artisans often produce beads out of glass and natural materials, such as shells, bone and wood, and use metal and plastic in their pieces less frequently. Older pieces will usually be held together by sinew, while newer examples will typically feature thread. Regardless of age, Native American beadwork will typically be expertly crafted, so pieces usually have tight, even stitching with no visible gaps. Familiarizing yourself with stitching techniques used by various tribes can also be helpful. You can find images of authentic beadwork on trusted online resources to refer to as you complete the identification process. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer evaluate your piece. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of textiles and garments that feature Native American beadwork.

Question 3

How do I identify Native American baskets?

Accepted Answer

To identify Native American baskets, you can research the patterns using authoritative online resources to try and determine which tribe produced it. However, many replicas exist and there are many tribes that produced baskets. As a result, it is a good idea to consult a licensed appraiser. On 1stDibs, find a variety of expertly vetted Native American baskets.

Question 4

What are Native American drums called?

Accepted Answer

What Native American drums are called varies by type. Ones designed to rest in the player's lap are hand drums, while instruments that hold water used primarily by the Iroquois and Yaqui are water drums. Large freestanding drums that produce loud percussive sounds are powwow drums. The Aztec and Hopi used foot drums. You'll find a range of Native American drums on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What are Native American slippers called?

Accepted Answer

Native American slippers are called moccasins. Moccasins are characterized by their U-shaped puckered toe design and are crafted with various leathers such as sheepskin or buffalo. They may or may not be decorated with beading. Shop a collection of authentic moccasins from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 6

What are Native American beads called?

Accepted Answer

It depends on which region the beads were made since they were created out of available materials found in the land around them. In the Eastern Woodlands, white and purple marine shell beads were called “wampum”. You can shop a collection of Native American beadwork from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What are Native American blankets called?

Accepted Answer

The most well-known Native American blankets come from Navajo weaving, which are prized by collectors worldwide. Originally utilitarian, the Navajo people began creating blankets specifically for export and tourism in the 19th century. Shop a collection of Navajo blankets from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

What does the Native American headdress symbolize?

Accepted Answer

What a Native American headdress represents depends on what tribe produced it. In general, headdresses may symbolize a person's status within the tribe or serve as a sign of bravery during battle. You'll find a selection of Native American headdresses on 1stDibs.

Question 9

What does moccasins mean in Native American?

Accepted Answer

In the Native American language of Powhatan spoken by the Algonquian indigenous people, moccasin refers to a hand-sewn suede bootie. Today, people may call any shoes that feature stitched round toes by the name. Shop a variety of moccasins on 1stDibs.

Question 10

What are Native American dolls called?

Accepted Answer

There are a wide array of different dolls made by the various tribes of Native American peoples. Some of the most well-known are the kachinas made by the Navajo, Hopi and Pueblo peoples. Shop an array of Native American dolls on 1stDibs.

Question 11

What did Native Americans use for baskets?

Accepted Answer

What Native Americans used to produce baskets varied from tribe to tribe. Generally, craftsmen used whatever materials were readily available. In the Northeast, sweet grass was a common material, while pine needles and wicker are frequently found in baskets produced by tribes in the Southeast. Find a range of vintage and antique baskets on 1stDibs.

Question 12

How can I tell if Native American jewelry is real?

Accepted Answer

To tell if Native American jewelry is real, have it evaluated by a licensed and experienced appraiser. Because every tribe has its own designs and identifying characteristics, it is usually not possible to determine authenticity using only online resources. Find a collection of expertly vetted Native American jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 13

Which Native American tribe is known for pottery?

Accepted Answer

A number of Native American tribes are known for pottery, including the Cheyenne, Cherokees, Hopi, Iroquois, Navajo Pueblo and Shoshone. Artisans from each indigenous group have their own style. For example, Hopi pottery is often a red-brown color and decorated with black designs, while Navajo pottery is deeper brown and usually has a high-gloss finish. Find a selection of Native American pottery on 1stDibs.

Question 14

Is Native American jewelry worth anything?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some Native American jewelry is worth something. As with other types of jewelry, many pieces are made of fine materials, such as sterling silver, turquoise, jasper and lapis lazuli. Jewelry produced by Native American artists may also have value based on its age, style, type and other factors. Find a large selection of Native American jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 15

What do rattles symbolize in Native American culture?

Accepted Answer

What rattles symbolize in Native American culture varies from tribe to tribe. Some indigenous people believe they serve as connections between the natural and spiritual worlds. Others believe they represent the ties between animals, plants and minerals. In addition, rattles sometimes symbolize independence. On 1stDibs, find a selection of Native American rattles.

Question 16

What are the two different types of Native American beadwork?

Accepted Answer

The two types of Native American beadwork are called the “lazy stitch” or “lane stitch” and the “tack stitch” or “flat stitch”. You can shop a collection of Native American beadwork from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.

Native American Pawnee

Antique 1850s American Native American Arms, Armor and Weapons

Pawnee Pipe Tomahawk, circa 1850-1870

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