Jake Livingston, Diné of the Navajo Nation Jeweler

Zuni Pueblo artist Jake Livingston is known for his mosaic inlay jewelry. He signs his jewelry with his initials J.L.

After being employed as a Navajo Tribal Policeman for a short period, he began studying mosaic inlay jewelry with Zuni jeweler Dennis Edaakie and dedicated himself to creating jewelry full time. Working with his wife Irene, he has been making spectacular, prize winning works of wearable art since the 1970s. He has won numerous awards, including First Place and Best of Division at Santa Fe Indian Market. His work is featured in Lois Jacka’s book Navajo Jewelry: A Legacy in Silver and Stone.

Jake Livingston (b. 1946) was born in Pinehaven, New Mexico. He grew up watching his Zuni father, Jacob Haloo, make jewelry.  He went to Window Rock High School and, after graduation, joined the Marines and served in Vietnam. During his time in Vietnam, he was wounded three times and received three Purple Hearts. Following the third injury, he returned home.

TAGS:  Dennis Edaakie, Zuni Pueblo, Southwest Indian Jewelry, Diné of the Navajo Nation