Description
sz6.75 Melanie Kirk Isleta Pueblo 14k gold and opal channel inlay ring 6.2 grams.
Recognized as the leading voices of today’s Contemporary Native Jewelry scene,
Designers and Goldsmiths Melanie Kirk-Lente and Michael Lente (Isleta Pueblo)
command a distinctive presence at the top of collectors’ lists world-wide. The
Lentes continue to carry on their well-known family tradition in fine jewelry
design, being taught by Melanie’s father, renowned artist Andy Lee Kirk.
Constantly striving to combine contemporary elegance with Native American design
themes is the driving force that motivates this husband-and-wife team to
continually evolve, allowing their designs to actually redefine the art form.
Their jewelry design is known for the use of traditional and contemporary
materials, such as gold, sterling silver, turquoise, coral, Australian opal,
sugilite, and diamonds.
Both as collaborators and individuals, the Lentes have amassed an impressive
list of top awards and showings at premier venues, including the Santa Fe Indian
Market, Eiteljorg Museum, and Heard Museum. Considered by many to be true works
of sculptured fine art, their pieces are presented for acquisition in select
fine art galleries throughout the United States, including Santa Fe’s premier
venue: Legends Santa Fe.
The family tradition of creating high-quality, collectible jewelry works was
established by Andy Kirk, and extends throughout the family to include Melanie’s
uncle Michael Kirk and his family: Cousin Anthony Gatewood, Sister Kimberlee
Kirk, and most recently, Michael’s brother Andrew Lente.
There are other art mediums constantly explored and expanded on by their family:
Metal art by brother Cody Crumbo, and cousin Brandon Jojola, pottery by
grandparents, aunts, and Melanie’s mother. The Lentes draw from the rich
heritage in Native arts that the entire family shares.
Surrounded by their three daughters, Justine, Taylor, and Samantha, inspiration
never runs short. Life in their native Isleta Pueblo is ingrained with their
Native beliefs and steeped in centuries-old traditions. Participation in pueblo
ceremonies remains a priority to their family values. Melanie and Michael share,
“Our way of life has been handed down for hundreds of years, and will continue
to flourish through the next generation of the Native people.”
All precious metals are tested and guaranteed, any Native American jewelry
referred to as Silver or Sterling is guaranteed to be a minimum of 90% (coin)
silver and possibly higher content.
