Santo Domingo (Kewa) Indian Jewelry

First of all, Kewa Pueblo, aka Santo Domingo Pueblo (Eastern Keres: Kewa). Also, it is an Indian pueblo and a census-designated place (CDP). Additionally, it is in Sandoval County, New Mexico, in the United States of America. Also, the pueblo is approximately 25 miles (40 km) southwest of Santa Fe, New Mexico, just 4 miles west of Interstate 25.

Consequently, the population of the pueblo consists of Native Americans who speak an eastern dialect of the Keresan languages.

In addition, the Pueblo celebrates an annual feast day on August 4 to honor their Patron Saint, St. Dominic. Interestingly, more than 2,000 pueblo people participate in traditional corn dances. Most importantly, the Spanish Conquistadores give the name “Santo Domingo” to the pueblo in the 1600s. As a matter of fact, the earliest given name for the pueblo is Gipuy. In contrast, according to Pueblo Council members the local name has always been “Kewa”. As a result, in 2009, the pueblo officially changes its name to Kewa Pueblo.

Most noteworthy, Santo Domingo jewelry comes from the Santo Domingo Pueblo in New Mexico. It is often has seashell, coral and turquoise which the craftsman attaches to a black backing. Surprisingly, this backing is often old vinyl records or old car battery shell.

At a Tucson Native American Indian event, we are very fortunate to meet artesian Jolene Bird. She is of the Santo Domingo (Kewa) Pueblo. Above, she explains the process of one of her masterpieces. In conclusion, we hope that you enjoy our visit with her, and learn about the extensive work to create this piece.

In this video, Jolene Bird explains the use of shell, turquoise, and a desert gourde to create this masterpiece. She also talks about the amount of time it takes to create her works of art.

Tucson Indian Jewelry offers a HUGE selection of Santo Domingo Jewelry!