About our Jewelry

We believe you should know what you’re buying. Every piece at Hereford Valley is selected for its craftsmanship, materials, and character. Some pieces are Native-made, while others are handcrafted Southwestern-style jewelry. We clearly identify the difference so you can shop with confidence.

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Is everything real sterling silver?

Yes. Every piece we sell is genuine sterling silver. We do not sell silver-plated or silver-tone jewelry.

Most pieces are .925 sterling silver, meaning they contain at least 92.5% silver. Because much of our jewelry is handmade, markings and hallmarks can vary from piece to piece. We try to include every detail in our pictures and product descriptions, but if you have any questions never hesitate to ask! Our goal is to find you pieces you love.

Are the stones genuine?

Yes. Our stone jewelry features genuine stones and natural materials, not plastic or imitation stones.

Because genuine stones are created by nature, variations in color, matrix, pattern, shape, and texture are expected. Those differences are part of what makes each piece unique.

When we have specific information about a stone, such as the turquoise mine or variety, we include it in the product description.

Is all of your jewelry Native-made?

No, and we believe the distinction matters.

Our collection includes both Native-made jewelry and handcrafted Southwestern-style jewelry made by non-Native artisans.

Native-made pieces are clearly identified with *Native in the product title and are also identified as Native-made in the product description. When the artist is known, we include their name and tribal affiliation when that information is available and can be appropriately attributed.

If an item is not identified as Native-made, it should not be assumed to be Native-made.

Is everything handmade?

Yes. Our jewelry is handcrafted rather than mass-produced costume jewelry.

Because these pieces are made by hand, you may notice small variations, tool marks, solder marks, or other characteristics of traditional silversmithing. These are not necessarily flaws. They are part of the character of handmade jewelry.

What do hallmarks and stamps mean?

Many pieces are stamped with an artist's hallmark, initials, signature, or a sterling mark such as STERLING or .925. These marks can help identify the maker and materials used.

However, handmade sterling jewelry is not always stamped. The absence of a hallmark or .925 stamp does not automatically mean a piece is not sterling silver.

When we know the maker or can reliably attribute a hallmark, we include that information in the listing. We do not guess at artist attribution.

Why does my piece look different from the photos?

Many of our pieces are one-of-a-kind or contain individually selected stones. Genuine turquoise and other natural stones vary naturally in color, matrix, and pattern. 

We photograph our jewelry to represent its color and appearance as accurately as possible, but screens and lighting can also affect how colors appear.

How should I care for sterling silver?

Sterling silver naturally oxidizes and develops patina over time. This is normal and does not mean your jewelry is damaged or poor quality.

Store your jewelry in a dry place when it isn't being worn. Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, household chemicals, perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products. Use care when polishing jewelry containing stones, as some stones require gentler handling than sterling silver itself. Oxidized Navajo and desert pearls should be cleaned and polished with care to avoid over polishing and changing the look of the beads.

Why buy from Hereford Valley?

Hereford Valley is intentionally small. We don't want to carry hundreds of identical pieces or fill our shop simply for the sake of having more inventory. We would rather offer jewelry that feels special.

Every piece is individually selected with an emphasis on genuine materials, craftsmanship, and designs that have a little personality. Our collection includes everything from everyday sterling silver to statement pieces, handcrafted Southwestern-style jewelry, and Native-made work from individual artists.

We also believe you deserve to know what you're buying. We clearly distinguish Native-made jewelry from Southwestern-style pieces, identify artists and materials when that information is available, and don't make claims about a piece that we can't support.

Most importantly, we're here because we genuinely love this jewelry. Hereford Valley isn't a massive retailer or a faceless marketplace. It's a small business built around finding beautiful, well-made pieces and sending them on to people who will love wearing them as much as we loved finding them.