Gaspeite Pendant by Tommy Singer
Gaspeite Pendant
- Sterling Silver Overlay Pendant
- Size including bail- 3 1/2" x 1 1/2" W
- Back is stamped with artist hallmark
- Native American made jewelry
- Signature upon delivery required for this exclusive item.
Gaspeite is a relatively rare mineral, found only in a few localities. Its light green, almost apple green color is quite unique. Some varieties are almost neon green. It may contain brownish patches which may give it a distinctive character.
It is named for the locality of Gaspe Peninsula in Quebec, Canada where it was originally found. Sources are Canada and Western Australia. Piece bares the T. Singer hallmark.
Tommy Singer
Navajo/ Dine'
Tommy Singer’s distinct style of jewelry is recognized the world over and he is considered by many as one of the greatest contemporary Native American jewelry silversmiths of our time.
He was born on September 17, 1938 in Winslow, Arizona. The son of Tsinnigine Hathali, a Navajo medicine man and silversmith.
He learned the art of silversmithing from his father when he was just 7 years old. He perfected his craft working on the Navajo reservation in a small studio surrounded by his family and other tribal members. Tommy once said, “Every piece is made with the various meanings from my traditional ways- the Dine’ way of living. My father was a silversmith too. He taught me and wanted me to continue this trade. It was my father’s dream that I learn to silversmith so that I could continue his beliefs.”
Tommy started his career in the early 1960’s and quickly gained recognition for his unique style and high-quality work. He was one of the early innovators of the stamp design/ silver overlay technique in Navajo jewelry, which involves layering two pieces of silver, with the top layer featuring a cut-out design that exposes the oxidized bottom layer to create a detailed and contrasting effect. Although his early works were done in the silver overlay technique, he soon began to feature turquoise stones. While working with scrap turquoise chips, Tommy pioneered the technique of chip inlay used by thousands of artists to this day. This technique became his signature style and earned him a distinguished reputation in the Native American art world.
Tommy eventually returned to his roots creating exquisite silver overlaid jewelry with intricate designs and occasional gold leaf elements. These deigns often featured traditional Navajo symbols, animals, and landscape elements, reflecting his deep connection to his culture and heritage. His work has been showcased in various galleries and museums, and he was a regular participant in the prestigious Santa Fe Indian Market where he received numerous awards for his exceptional artistry.
Tommy passed away in 2014. His legacy as a master silversmith continues to inspire the new generations of Native American artists, and his work remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiast alike. To identify a work by Tommy Singer, look for the signature “T. Singer,” or “T” with a crescent moon.