QVC to Offer Native Jewelry Inspired by National Museum of the American Indian Collection

Native News Network Staff in Entertainment. Discussion »

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WEST CHESTER, PENNSYLVANIA - Twenty two pieces of jewelry, including rings, pendants, pins, earrings and bracelets, inspired by objects in the National Museum of the American Indian's world-class collection will be shown on QVC Tuesday, Sept. 6, from 6 to 8 pm edt.

QVC host Jane Treacy will be joined on the two-hour live show by guest host Brenda Toineeta Pipestem, Eastern Band of Cherokee, who is member of the museum's National Council. The museum's vast collection consists of more than 800,000 items, which spans the Western Hemisphere and more than 10,000 years of history. All of the pieces are based on historical designs and design elements associated with specific items in the collection, and it was a priority to have all items made in the United States. Prices range from $35 to $375.

Pieces include an exquisite and delicate pair of silver chandelier earrings based on a metal bell from the Vicús culture of northwestern Peru and dating from about 200 B.C. to A.D. 600. A substantial silver cuff bracelet with a turquoise stone was inspired by a Navajo piece that was created around 1950; it is an example of the sand-cast technique of creating a mold and filling with the molten metal. A Mayan ceramic stamp made between 2000 BC and AD 900 and excavated in Joachín in the Mexican state of Veracruz and used to decorate cloth, paper or even skin is reflected in a dazzling silver and brass hand-print pin.

A trio of items, a ring, pendant and bracelet, based on a cuff bracelet designed by artist and former Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell, Northern Cheyenne, have precious metals and stones along with iconic motifs of horses, buffalo and tipis to depict Plains culture. Campbell will appear on the show to talk about his artistry and jewelry design.

Additional information about the museum's collection and facilities, along with extended footage featuring behind'the'scenes with curator Ann McMullen and the history of featured items, will be available online at www.QVC.com.

posted September 6, 2011 7:00 am edt