Business Details
Handcrafted Turquoise Jewelry in Albuquerque, NM
Gertrude Zachary Handmade has been crafting exceptional turquoise jewelry since the 1970s, blending contemporary design with traditional Native American artistry. Founded by Gertrude Zachary, a visionary in the industry, our pieces are handcrafted using rare, high-grade materials like natural North American turquoise and Mediterranean coral. Each creation undergoes a meticulous process, from stone selection to final polishing, ensuring unparalleled quality. Our designs, many of which were originally sketched by Gertrude herself, are brought to life by skilled Native American silversmiths in our Albuquerque facility.Today, Gertrudes daughter, Erica Hatchell, continues this legacy, maintaining the same standards of excellence that have defined our brand for decades. We specialize in one-of-a-kind pieces, including inlay designs and custom creations, available through our Albuquerque showroom and online. Our commitment to quality and heritage has earned us a global clientele seeking museum-quality southwestern jewelry at accessible prices.
Services
Turquoise Jewelry
Inlay Designs
Custom Jewelry
Handmade Jewelry
Native American Jewelry
Jewelry Repair
Wholesale Jewelry
Online Jewelry Sales
Gift Jewelry
Museum-Quality Jewelry
Highlights and features
- We specialize in rare, high-grade turquoise and Mediterranean coral jewelry.
- Our designs are handcrafted by skilled Native American silversmiths in Albuquerque.
- We offer one-of-a-kind pieces unavailable through mass production.
- Our legacy spans decades, with designs originally sketched by Gertrude Zachary.
- We provide global access to museum-quality southwestern jewelry at outlet prices.
Services
Turquoise Jewelry
Our turquoise jewelry collection showcases rare, high-grade stones sourced from renowned mines like Bisbee and Kingman. Each piece combines traditional Native American craftsmanship with contemporary design, offering unique rings, necklaces, and bracelets. The stones are hand-selected for their color and matrix patterns, ensuring one-of-a-kind creations that reflect New Mexico's heritage.
Inlay Designs
Inlay designs feature intricate arrangements of turquoise and other gemstones set into metal with precision. Our artisans create detailed patterns that highlight the natural beauty of the stones, resulting in wearable art pieces. This technique preserves centuries-old Southwestern jewelry traditions while incorporating modern aesthetics for versatile, everyday wear.
Custom Jewelry
Custom jewelry services allow clients to collaborate with our designers on unique creations. From selecting rare stones to finalizing sketches, we guide customers through the process of crafting personalized pieces. This service caters to those seeking heirloom-quality jewelry that reflects individual style and heritage, using materials like Mediterranean coral and high-grade turquoise.
Handmade Jewelry
Every handmade jewelry piece is crafted in our Albuquerque facility by skilled Native American silversmiths. The process involves hand-cutting stones, shaping metal, and assembling components without mass production. This ensures meticulous attention to detail, resulting in durable, high-quality items that embody the artistry and cultural significance of Southwestern jewelry traditions.
Native American Jewelry
Our Native American jewelry line honors traditional techniques passed down through generations. Silversmiths use hand tools and time-tested methods to create pieces that reflect cultural motifs and natural elements. The collection includes concho belts, squash blossoms, and fetish pendants, all made with ethically sourced materials and designed to celebrate indigenous artistry and heritage.
People
Gertrude Zachary
Founder
Gertrude Zachary (1937-2013) revolutionized Native American jewelry by introducing contemporary designs using gemstones. A self-taught artist, she established the company in the 1970s and pioneered inlay techniques that remain central to our craft today.
Erica Hatchell
Operations Manager
Erica Hatchell, Gertrude's daughter, oversees daily operations with over 30 years of experience. She continues her mother's legacy by hand-selecting stones and collaborating on designs, ensuring the brand maintains its reputation for quality and authenticity.
Questions
What makes Gertrude Zachary's turquoise jewelry unique?
Our jewelry uses rare, high-grade turquoise and Mediterranean coral, handcrafted by Native American silversmiths using traditional techniques. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, blending contemporary design with cultural heritage.
Can I request custom jewelry designs?
Yes, we offer custom jewelry services where you can collaborate with our designers to create personalized pieces using ethically sourced materials tailored to your preferences.
Do you sell jewelry internationally?
Yes, we ship globally and have served customers worldwide, offering the same museum-quality craftsmanship and unique designs to international clients.
What is the significance of inlay designs?
Inlay designs preserve centuries-old Southwestern traditions. Each piece features meticulously cut stones set into metal, creating intricate patterns that highlight the natural beauty of turquoise and other gemstones.
How should I care for my turquoise jewelry?
Avoid exposing turquoise to chemicals or prolonged moisture. Clean gently with a soft cloth, and store separately to prevent scratches, as turquoise is softer than many other gemstones.
Is your jewelry available in physical stores?
Yes, visit our Old Town Albuquerque showroom for the largest selection. Our pieces are also available online for convenient shopping.
Reviews (4)
LaLa G.
Feb 18, 2022
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A consistent 5 stars from me on the Gertrude Zachary experience. They have inspiring and unique pieces. Every piece is quality made and exceptional. The location and one on one service will exceed your expectations, my salesperson Denise remembers me, what she's sold me in the past and knows my style and will keep me in mind when something she thinks I like and is in my budget comes in. Please consider going in and ask for Denise
Annette Hoffman
Nov 29, 2018
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Absolutely the best. Made my daughter a beautiful graduation ring. Gertrude Zachary Jewelry provides amazing service and is so patient and helpful during the purchasing process. Trustworthy and friendly -- I will definitely continue to shop here and will be a lifelong customer.
John Badal
Nov 05, 2017
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A very classy display of high quality southwestern jewelry and home accessories. Prices are reasonable for the high quality products. In laid turquoise bracelets are a joy to see.
Laura Newland
Mar 25, 2017
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The staff here are always so friendly and the jewelry selection is amazing. I can always find something for myself or as gifts, no matter how large or small my budget is.
