Richard Begay – Smithsonian-Featured Inlay Jewelry Artist
Posted by Nativo Arts on
About Richard Begay
Richard Begay is a seasoned Native American artist born and raised in Navajoland, Arizona. Even during his art classes in school, Richard was drawn to the challenge of creating the perfect shape, an early instinct that eventually led him directly to inlay jewelry, the style he has since become most famous for.
As he perfected his craft, Richard explored a range of different inlay techniques, always searching for the ideal harmony between material and craftsmanship. He also developed a sharp eye for choosing the best stones for his inlay work. Turquoise and coral are his favorite stones to work with, though his material range extends well beyond those two, having inlaid opals, sugilite, lapis, and other exotic stones into his award-winning pieces over the years. Richard's work has even been featured in the Smithsonian Museum, a significant mark of recognition within the field.
Beyond his considerable technical skill, Richard is also known for being genuinely kind and humble, qualities that have earned him respect within the jewelry community that goes beyond just his craftsmanship.
Identifying Richard Begay's Work
His hallmark reads RB alongside "Sterling."
Style & Materials
Richard's inlay work spans an unusually wide material range, from his signature turquoise and coral to more exotic stones like opal, sugilite, and lapis, always in pursuit of the harmony between stone and craft that first drew him to inlay as a young art student.
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Explore our collection of vintage Native American inlay turquoise and coral jewelry from Smithsonian-featured artisans.