Finger ring

Introduction

The Pueblos have used art as part of their culture for thousands of years, throughout the southwest area of the United States and especially the Rio Grande region. Pottery has been used for religious rituals and has represented resilience among the Pueblo people as they were impacted by imperialism. While the style of Pueblo Pottery has changed, the creation process has very much stayed the same throughout hundreds of years, even with modernization. Understanding the creation process helps one to properly understand the culture and effort behind the pottery. Turquoise is an abundant resource in the Southwestern United States and has made its way into the cultural and religious practices of Natives groups all around the desert. To the Pueblo, it had significant religious and cultural importance and was worn by nearly everyone as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.  The introduction of silversmithing inspired by the Navajo allowed for larger and more complex inclusions of turquoise and other precious stones. Indigenous Pueblo women often had significant roles in society and were important providers as well. The division of labor allowed Pueblo women to be equals with their male counterparts and be active members of society through their messages and skills.