Buying On Line From Native American Stores

By Daphne Bowen


Getting out to do some shopping is a fun way to spend time. Not only does it get people out of the house, it also offers the opportunity to purchase some beautiful items. Supporting a store that is run by a minority group is a wonderful idea. The merchandise is typically hand crafted and of very high quality. In addition, the shopper has a chance to acquire a really unique piece that they will treasure for ever.

Every business, big or small, needs an internet presence to be competitive today. This is just as important for native American stores as it is for everyone else. These unique shops offer a host of beautiful and unique gifts. Many are crafted by artisans who learned their craft from their parents. These skills have been handed down for generations and are now finding a whole new market place. Not only does this help to keep traditional crafts alive but it also provides a valuable income for these people.

For generations the Indian tribes of North American had virtually been forgotten. After a disastrous series of wars with the United States government, most of the remaining tribes were forced onto reservations and denied access to their old homelands and life. Many of their traditional skills were lost and people became very despondent. Fortunately, the new era of technology came just in time to revive many of the old ways.

On of the most popular ways to market in recent years has been to join a crafting cooperative. In this scheme a number of craftspeople get together to form their own group. There really is strength in numbers and the benefits are widespread. Customers can visit the store front or website and see the work of ten or more people rather than just one.

Probably the best know style of native artwork is that of the desert southwest. There is a long tradition of working with silver, to make both jewelry and ornamental wear. The prankster of the culture is a small figure called Kokopelli. He is often featured in local artwork and jewelry. This mythical being has really become quite famous and having a piece of necklace or bracelet with his image is really quite a talking point.

Each native group or tribe was shaped by their environment. The tribes of the desert southwest are amongst the most famous for their jewelry. Silver forms the basis of most pieces and the addition of locally mined precious stones make for a dramatic and beautiful look. The legends of the tribe are woven into their artwork and tell some amazing stories.

The plains Indian culture was focused on the horse. Many beautiful pieces of art have been created that use horses as inspiration. In combination with the outstanding natural beauty of the central plains this style has developed into something really unique. There are now a growing number of private collectors who generate a thriving market for this art.

Supporting a native American store is the perfect way to help a group of people who are trying to compete economically. Many of the crafts people have no formal training and are struggling for recognition. Buying from them is the perfect way to show support and help them grow professionally and economically.




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