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Kachina Dolls

Posted by Alltribes on Sep 11th 2024

Kachina Dolls

Born in the oldest continually inhabited settlement in North America, on Third Mesa in Hopi Land, Kachina Doll carving is indeed an ancient art form. Kachina can be spelled two ways, Katsina, the plural of which is Katsinam; and Kachina or Kachinas. The "ch" represents a sound that sounds similar to the Hopi "ts" sound.

Kachinas generally exist in three primary forms:

  • Spiritual Beings (Supernatural Entities):
    • In Hopi belief, kachinas are spiritual or supernatural beings that dwell in the clouds, mountains, or lakes and act as intermediaries between the gods and the people. They are responsible for bringing rain, fertility, and blessings to the community. These kachinas represent various elements of the natural world, such as rain, animals, plants, and even moral or social values.
  • Kachina Dancers (Masked Performers):
    • During ceremonial dances, Hopi men dress in Kachina costumes and masks, embodying specific Kachina spirits. These dancers bring the spirits to life during important seasonal rituals, especially to ensure rain for crops and community well-being. The dances are considered sacred, and each dancer impersonates a particular Kachina spirit with its own distinct attributes and personality.
  • Kachina Dolls (Tihu):
    • Kachina dolls are carved wooden representations of the Kachina dancers, usually given to children to teach them about the different kachinas and their roles in Hopi culture. The Dolls are given to children in infancy; boys getting only one when they are babies, and girls receiving them regularly until they reach puberty. These dolls are not toys but sacred educational tools that serve as reminders of the spiritual beings. Each doll corresponds to a specific Kachina, and the details of the carving and painting reflect the distinct traits of that spirit. Kachinas Dolls are also created as a form of art, with the intention of being sold and displayed. This has led to increasingly more impressive and elaborate carvings that take weeks to create. These large and often times delicate sculptures are not intended for children.
  • Hopi carvers first began selling Katsina Dolls in the 1920's, so for the last hundred years, this art has been an important source of revenue for the Hopi people. Styles have evolved over time, and each style can be identified by experts to determine the time period of the carving. 

    Like the Hopi people themselves, their religion, and their culture, Kachina Doll carving is still thriving to this day. 

    We carry the work of contemporary Hopi carvers, such as  Milton Howard.

    Native Americans have been handcrafting jewelry since they first drew inspiration from their natural surroundings and transformed shell and stone into wearable jewelry. Some of the oldest discovered pieces date from over 10,000 years ago. The skilled artisans at Alltribes continue the age-old tradition and create captivating works of art that will surpass your expectations!

    Alltribes is one of the rare jewelry stores that has a workshop employing Native American artists creating extraordinary pieces of jewelry. Other artists work from home or on the reservation. Alltribes Native American Art and Jewelry blends ancient history, natural beauty, and unparalleled expertise flawlessly. We are conveniently located near Scottsdale, Mesa and Phoenix, AZ in the charming town of Gilbert. Unfortunately we do not have enough staff to take walk in customers but would be more than happy to schedule an appointment to come by the shop and check out some items in person. We can also do curbside pickup if you note that during checkout.

    Our Jewelry

    The design and quality of our Silver and Turquoise jewelry are unmatched and stand far above the rest. Turquoise conveys a special meaning as it has for centuries and in populations across the globe. Turquoise signifies healing, spirit and good fortune. With masterful techniques, silversmiths and artists incorporate this semi-precious stone into beautiful and intricate designs, drawing customers from around the world.

    You can own a piece of Native American artistry without spending a fortune. Alltribes provides deep discounts because we make most of our jewelry in house. Our in-house artists and silversmiths create custom pieces without the extra expenses.

    Our Local History

    Gilbert, AZ provides the ideal location for crafting our Native American jewelry. The Navajo and Hopi Indian tribes have inhabited nearby lands for many thousands of years. Their eternal respect for natural beauty and their innate talent shines through in every handcrafted work of art.

    Our dazzling, Sleeping Beauty Turquoise comes from a nearby mine in Globe, AZ. This unique and exceedingly rare turquoise is renowned for its hardness, durability, and gorgeous color. Our artisans preserve the natural beauty of this precious stone, so you can admire its elegance for years to come. A hand buffed polish protects the stones and heightens its natural beauty.

    Our Tradition

    In addition to Native American jewelry, Alltribes upholds the ancient traditions of Native Americans by offering more than remarkable jewelry. We offer a wide variety of Native American Cultural Art including authentic Hopi Kachina dolls, pueblo pottery, Navajo Wool Rugs, hand-dyed leather belts, dreamcatchers, tomahawks and other Southwestern and Native American artifacts, to beautify your home and your life. It is our pleasure, to help spread knowledge about the Native American culture to the general public.

    As part of our continuing effort to inform and inspire, we offer a vast array of in-depth knowledge for those who want to learn more about Native Americans and the Southwest. Our online knowledge center is free for all and includes some of the most interesting and complete information available online.

    Alltribes has been serving our valued customers for over 50 years, so you can rest assured that when you have a question or concern, we'll be right here, ready to help. When you purchase something online today, you never know if the company will still be there, next week or next month.

    Alltribes' reputation and longstanding experience ensure you get more than just jewelry – you get a wealth of seasoned knowledge and exceptional service…..that you can count on! We consider our customers to be part of our extended family and we're proud to say that our family now spans continents. We'd love to have you join us!

    In addition to our local Native American products, we offer distinguished wares, sourced from Native American tribes across the U.S. Navajo, Hopi, Zuni and other Native American artists provide one-of-a-kind items that we proudly offer to you, at direct to you prices!

    Alltribes is much more than just a manufacturer, store and knowledge center. We keep a jewelry workshop on site. If you want a custom design, our silversmiths will work with you to turn your dream into reality. Have an idea for something new? Talk with our artisans and discuss how to bring it to fruition. And should your beloved jewelry ever need to be repaired, we help with that, too.

    Whether you're a Native American enthusiast, a collector, a designer or simply someone who loves beauty, Alltribes showcases a diverse collection of superior artifacts, sure to satisfy even the most selective customer.