Julian Lovato: A Founder of Modern American Indian Art

Julian Lovato was born in Santo Domingo Pueblo, Mexico in 1922. His highly collectible and intricate jewelry pieces garnered him his ‘master craftsman’ status. Lovato combines beautiful stones like gem grade turquoise and coral with exquisite silversmithing techniques. Most of his work is classified as traditional jewelry but he is also well-known for modern raised dimensional design. Thanks to the influence of Frank Patania, Julian Lovato was encouraged to experiment with other aesthetics and materials, such as gold. Today, his unique pieces are sought-after worldwide by collectors who are looking for signature pieces that exemplify modern American Indian Art—a powerful balance of metals and stones.

The area of Santo Domingo Pueblo where Julian Lovato grew up is popular for silversmithing and bead making. Lovato is descended from a family of jewelry makers; his father and grandfather create wonderful turquoise pieces. At the ripe age of 13 years old, Julian started work as a stone cutter at the distinguished Maisel’s Indian Trading Post. As an apprentice of Frank Patania, Lovato was exposed to modern design sensibilities. During the earlier part of his career, Lovato acquired silver monogramming skills that led him to produce cufflinks, brooches, buckles, and contemporary rings that were sold at the Thunderbird shop owned by Patania. Aside from jewelry, Julian Lovato also created collectible teapots, pitchers, sterling silver bowls, and trays.

Today, the work of Julian Lovato is revered for its unique dimensional quality. His raised designs definitely stand out from the rest of the other Native American pieces that are usually stamped or overlaid. The use of bezel for raising stones on jewelry helps Lovato create "floating" pieces. Most of his pieces are heavier than average mainly because of the substantial use of gold and silver.

Julian Lovato has a love of turquoise and coral, even saying these precious stones are Southwestern Indians’ diamonds and most valuable treasures. Many of his pieces are centered on these precious stones. What’s more, he insists on using turquoise and coral of the highest quality.

Lovato has become well-known for creating modern American Indian art that truly stands out from the rest. For example, his signature bracelets curve along the length as well as the width.

Are you interested in adding Lovato’s pieces to your collection? You can buy his work online. To ensure the authenticity of the Julian Lovato jewelry you are purchasing, be sure to buy only from trustworthy retailers that can also offer a certificate of authenticity.

Turquoise Direct is one of the most prominent sellers of authentic handmade turquoise jewelry, designed by award winning Native American artists, including Julian Lovato, Harry H.