Frequently Asked Questions
What is gage referring to?
The gage or gauge refers to the thickness of the metal used in a piece of jewelry. At ColoradoJo, it most often refers to the thickness of the silver.
Some silversmiths are known for working with heavier-gauge silver. Artists such as Delbert Gordon and Matthew Charley are examples, and their use of heavier silver can be part of their distinctive, recognizable style.
Is there a difference between Diné and Navajo silversmithing?
Diné and Navajo refer to the same Indigenous Tribe. Diné is the name the people use for themselves, while Navajo is the commonly used name outside the Tribe. Both terms may be used to describe the Tribe and its artistic traditions.
For example, Diné silversmithing and Navajo silversmithing refer to the same tradition. Similarly, silversmithing traditions may be identified by other Tribal communities, such as Santo Domingo and Zuni.
Can I request a custom piece?
Unfortunately, we no longer take requests for custom pieces.
What is a tufa cast?
A tufa cast refers to the traditional Native American (primarily Navajo) silversmithing process where molten sterling silver is poured into a hand-carved mold made of tufa stone. Because tufa stone is a soft, compressed volcanic ash, this process creates a really unique textured silver that gives tufa its desirable look.
What does Naja mean?
From the Navajo (Diné) language, Naja translates to "crescent".
In jewelry, the Naja refers to the inverted crescent shaped pendants that date back to the early 1880s. You may find this design in different collections based on the silversmith’s personal influence, taste, etc. and you will typically always find one at the bottom of a squash blossom necklace.
Are there multiple ways to style a piece?
Yes! You’ll find that a lot of our pieces are one of a kind, but that doesn’t mean they have to be worn just one way.
Sometimes because the measurements are smaller on vintage Concho belts, if it has a lot of flexible chain links, these pieces may lend themselves to being worn as a necklace/lariat style. See each product description to get more information about the piece.
What is a lariat?
A lariat in jewelry is a long, open-ended necklace that lacks a traditional clasp and is secured instead by looping, knotting, threading or hooking one end through a ring, slide or link.
What does it mean when a piece is hallmarked?
A hallmark on jewelry is a tiny symbol, number, or letter stamped onto precious metals to show their purity, authenticity, and origin. This also includes the signature/initials or logo of an artist or collaboration of artists.
What is your shipping policy?
We are dedicated to processing and shipping your orders as quickly as possible. Please review our shipping practices below to understand how your package travels from our door to yours.
Fast Processing & Handling
- 1-Business-Day Shipping: We pack and ship all orders within one business day of your purchase.
- Cutoff Times: Orders placed before 12:00 PM MST Monday through Friday go out the same day. Orders placed after the cutoff, on weekends, or on holidays ship the very next business day.
Shipping Rates & Options
- Complimentary Standard Shipping: We are pleased to offer free standard shipping on all domestic orders. Standard delivery typically arrives within 3 to 5 business days after shipment.
- Preferred Shipping Methods: If you require expedited delivery or a specific carrier, please contact us directly at colorado.jo.co@gmail.com for preferred shipping methods at client's expense.
Destinations & Tracking
- US Shipping Only: We currently offer shipping exclusively to addresses within the United States at this time. We are unable to process international orders.
- Tracking Numbers: As soon as your order ships, we will email you a confirmation link containing your tracking number. Please allow up to 24 hours for the carrier to update the tracking status.
Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Items
- Package Issues: If your tracking information shows your package was delivered but you cannot find it, or if it arrives damaged, please contact your local shipping location (USPS, UPS, or FedEx) directly to open an investigation.