Collector’s Guide: Caring for Authentic Native American Art
Authentic Native American art is handcrafted and often made with natural materials that require special care. Proper maintenance helps to preserve both appearance and value. This short guide explains how to care for authentic Native American crafts so that they will last for years to come.
Jewelry
Because jewelry is worn outside in the world, it often needs the most maintenance. To keep your handcrafted jewelry and genuine gemstones looking their best, avoid exposure to chemicals, ammonias, oils, lotions, soaps, or detergents, all of which can cause damage or discoloration. To clean, wipe each piece gently with a soft, damp cloth, and use a dry silver-polishing cloth to lightly buff the metal.
In Native jewelry, all gemstones have been hand-set, and may become loose with wear. If you notice a loose gemstone, find a qualified silversmith to have the stone tightened. A note about turquoise, coral, opal, malachite, and pearls – they are porous gems, and should be treated with extra care.
Pottery
First, never expose pottery to water or moisture; using water to clean the piece can damage the paint and finish. Next, you’ll want to avoid exposing your pottery to extreme changes in temperature and humidity, and display them in a safe place out of direct sunlight. Dust your pottery often, using a soft, smooth cloth, such as a microfiber cloth or a soft brush. Lastly, pottery handles and raised details are especially fragile and prone to breaking.
Carvings
Native American carvings like Zuni fetishes are delicate works of art, and should be treated with care. Avoid displaying them in direct sunlight or exposing them to extreme temperatures and shifts in climate and humidity. Don’t wash your carvings with water or chemical cleaners; many carvings are made from porous materials that will be damaged or discolored by chemicals or water. Always handle carvings with clean hands to prevent oils from affecting the finish.
Rugs and Baskets
Handmade Native American rugs are extremely valuable works of art that will last for generations if they are displayed and treated as fine art.T o prevent the natural dyes from fading or changing colors, avoid exposing your rug to direct sunlight and store it in a cool, dry place.
Natural fiber Native American baskets should not be exposed to moisture, direct sunlight, or fluctuations in temperature or humidity. To clean, dust frequently with a feather duster or camel or sable hair brush. Do not vacuum the basket or apply cleaning agents or chemicals.
Drums and Flutes
To keep authentic Native American drums and flutes looking and sounding their best, protect them from moisture and extreme temperatures and store them in a cool, dry place when not in use.We recommend oiling the leather drum head and laces with Neat’s-foot Oil leather conditioner—but be careful not to saturate the hide, as this will affect the tonality of the drum. To preserve a flute's tonality, we recommend oiling with nontoxic mineral oil and linseed oil once a month to maintain tonality, depending upon the climate and how often the flute is played
Authentic artwork from Native artists can be a special addition to your home and become treasured piece. Whether it's jewelry, pottery, carvings, rugs, baskets, or instruments, gentle handling, proper storage, and routine care will help preserve authentic Native American art for generations.
