Frequently Asked Questions

Materials & Quality

What metals are used in your jewellery?
The majority of our jewellery is crafted from sterling silver (92.5% pure silver), which is durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Some pieces may also incorporate Gold, Brass or Copper.
What stones are commonly used?
Turquoise is iconic in Native American jewellery, but other stones like coral, lapis, and jet are also used.
Our Australia jewellers also use stones such as Carnelian, Jade, Aquamarine, Petrified Wood and Obsidian.
Does silver jewellery tarnish?
Yes, silver can tarnish over time, but regular wear, gentle cleaning and proper storage will keep your jewellery looking its best.
We can provide polishing cloths and additional guidance with purchases in-store.

How should I care for my silver jewellery?
Clean with a soft cloth, store in a dry place, and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or water to prevent tarnishing and damage.
We can provide polishing cloths and additional guidance with purchases in-store.
Can jewellery be repaired if damaged?
Most pieces can be repaired, though typically due to our small team we are only able to accept repairs of pieces made by our own jewellers - contact us for enquiries or details.

How much does your jewellery cost?
Prices vary widely based on artist, materials, and rarity.

Is your whole range visible online?
Unfortunately no.
As we are primarily and brick and mortar store and stock handmade individual pieces, we only upload a selection of our jewellery and artworks online.
To see our whole range we recommend visiting in-person, otherwise you can also follow our instagram for additional insights.
@southwesttrader
Can I return or exchange jewellery?
We do not accept returns though we are happy to organise exchanges for other pieces or store credit. Please see our full returns policy for details.
Do you offer gift wrapping or certificates?
Yes, we provide gift wrapping free of charge and can include a personalised message with your order - just let us know at checkout.
Do you accept “buy now and pay later”
We are happy to arrange Layby deposits and payments for any pieces you want set aside.
See our Layby page or contact us to lodge an enquiry and organise your first payment.
We do not accept Afterpay or Clearpay.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, including Amex, PayPal and Cash.

Do you have a physical store?
Yes! We are primarily a brick and mortar boutique.
Come visit our store: 36 OXFORD ST PADDINGTON, SYD, NSW, 2021
How long does shipping take within Sydney?
Most orders ship within 1–2 business days and arrive in 2–3 business days to Sydney metro addresses.
How long does shipping take outside Sydney?
Most orders ship within 1–2 business days and arrive in 5–10 business days to domestic orders outside of Sydney.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, details for international orders are visible in our checkout page.
Packages typically ship within 1–2 business days, arrival will depend on the shipment method.
Contact us for specific enquiries.

Are the Native American jewellery pieces on your website authentic?
Yes!! All our Native American jewellery is Authentic. Our team travel to the South West each year to buy directly from Artists and build our curated collection. Our pieces are sourced directly from established artisans.
Authentic Native American jewellery is handmade by Indigenous artists, often signed or hallmarked, and uses traditional techniques and materials like sterling silver and natural turquoise.
How can I tell if a piece is authentic or handmade?
Look for unique craftsmanship, slight imperfections (handmade hallmarks), sterling silver stamps, and artist signatures or tribal hallmarks.
Where is your jewellery made?
Our collection features jewellery handcrafted by Native American artists, as well as pieces by skilled Australian silversmiths, ensuring a blend of cultural authenticity and local craftsmanship.

Is it appropriate for non-Native American people to wear Native American jewellery?
Wearing authentic, ethically sourced Native American jewellery is generally seen as a way to appreciate and support Indigenous artists and their communities—provided the pieces are obtained respectfully.
How does buying from you support Native artists?
We primarily purchase directly from artists and their families to ensure they receive fair compensation and preserve traditional craftsmanship.

What are the main styles of Native American jewellery?
Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi are the most prominent, each with distinctive techniques: Navajo for bold silverwork, Zuni for delicate stone inlay, and Hopi for intricate overlay designs.
Do the designs have special meanings?
Many pieces incorporate symbols from nature and tribal spirituality, such as animals, feathers, and geometric patterns, reflecting the artist’s heritage and personal expression.
We are happy to discuss the individual meaning of pieces.