Every piece of jewelry has a story. Not just the story you give it—where you wore it, who gifted it, what milestone it marks—but the story of its creation.

At Wildflower, we believe the soul of each piece begins at the maker’s bench: the artist’s hands, the stone’s journey, the fusion of tradition and innovation.

Let’s pull back the curtain and introduce you to a few of the remarkable artists whose work brings Wildflower’s collection to life. Because when you know the story behind the stone, every piece becomes more than jewelry—it becomes a legacy.

Why Artist Stories Matter

• Connection: Wearing artist-made jewelry is like carrying a piece of someone’s creative spirit with you.

• Authenticity: Knowing the maker guarantees you’re getting real craftsmanship, not factory-made “Southwest style.”

• Ethics: Supporting artists means supporting fair wages, traditional skills, and sustainable sourcing.

• Collectibility: Artist-signed pieces hold their value and become heirlooms—not just accessories.

Meet the Makers: Wildflower’s Featured Artisans

Johnny Coonsis (Zuni)

• Signature: Guitar hallmark, channel inlay turquoise cuffs and bracelets.

• Style: Sleek, modern, but deeply rooted in Zuni tradition.

• Story: Johnny’s work is sought after for its clean lines, mirror-polished silver, and that unmistakable ribbon of inlaid turquoise.

“When I source a Coonsis cuff, I know I’m getting both heritage and innovation—pieces that feel as good as they look.”

Larry Moses Yazzie (Navajo)

• Signature: L.M.Y. hallmark, geometric turquoise inlay earrings and pendants.

• Style: Crisp triangles, modern forms, flawless craftsmanship.

• Story: Larry’s pieces sit right below the lobe, balancing comfort and presence. His turquoise inlay earrings are modern classics—instantly recognizable, endlessly wearable.

Rick Tolino (Navajo)

• Signature: Artist hallmark, hand-strung turquoise bead necklaces with channel inlay pendants.

• Style: Earthy, layered, with a focus on natural turquoise and tactile details.

• Story: Rick’s work is all about balance—weight, color, movement. His bead necklaces sit naturally, layering beautifully with silver chains or standing alone as a statement.

Grace Chin

• Signature: Studio artist, minimalist sterling silver, marquise/leaf forms.

• Style: Contemporary, airy, perfect for everyday wear.

• Story: Grace’s pieces are about movement and light—necklaces that adjust to your mood, earrings that swing with you, all handmade in her Utah studio.

The Wildflower Curation Process: How We Choose Our Makers

• Artist-first: We build relationships with makers, not middlemen.

• Transparency: Every piece comes with the artist’s name (and tribe, with consent).

• Ethical sourcing: Stones are real, silver is always .925, and every step is traceable.

• Diversity: Our collection celebrates a range of perspectives—Zuni, Navajo, studio artists, and more.

Why Hallmarks and Signatures Matter

• Proof of authenticity: A hallmark is your guarantee of real artistry.

• Collector’s value: Signed pieces are more desirable and hold their worth.

• Personal connection: When you know the maker, you carry their story with you.

Behind the Scenes: Sourcing and Storytelling

When we curate new pieces for Wildflower, it’s never just about looks. We ask:

• Who made this?

• What’s the story behind the stone?

• How was it crafted—by hand, with care, or by machine?

• Is the artist credited and compensated fairly?

Every answer shapes our collection. We want you to know exactly what you’re wearing—and why it matters.

How to Spot Artist-Made Jewelry

Look for:

• Hallmarks or signatures on the back or inside the piece

• Detailed descriptions of the maker and their technique

• Real materials: natural turquoise, .925 sterling, zero plating

• Subtle variations—no two pieces are ever identical

Ask:

• Who is the artist?

• Where was the stone sourced?

• What’s the meaning behind the design?

The Power of Story: Why We Share Our Makers

We believe jewelry is more than adornment—it’s a conversation starter, a memory keeper, a bridge between cultures and generations.

When you wear Wildflower, you’re not just wearing a beautiful object. You’re honoring the artist, the tradition, and the journey from stone to silver to your story.

FAQs

Question1: Why does artist credit matter?

• Answer: It ensures authenticity, supports living artists, and adds value to your collection.

Question 2: Do all Wildflower pieces have hallmarks?

• Answer: Most do, especially from established makers. If not, we always share the artist’s name and story.

Question 3: How do you find your artists?

• Answer: We curate from trusted Southwest makers, established relationships, and direct studio visits.

Question 4: Can I request a custom piece from a specific artist?

Answer: Reach out! We love connecting collectors with makers for special commissions.

Real Stories from Wildflower Collectors

When you choose Wildflower, you’re choosing more than a piece of jewelry—you’re choosing a story, a connection, a legacy.