Harvey Begay, son of renowned silversmith, Kenneth Begay, blends old and new to create contemporary designs in his jewelry. Kenneth Begay, Harvey’s father, was a teacher and a leader among Navajo silversmiths in the early 1940’s and 50’s. He was noted for introducing a new style that led away from the massive jewelry of that era. This gave him the title of The Father of Modern Navajo Jewelry. He died in 1977. Harvey worked for his father at his workshop in Scottsdale, Arizona, during his younger years. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in science from Arizona State University in 1961. With an ambition to fly, he joined the U.S. Navy as a flight officer. He took on two tours of duty in the Far East, the second in Vietnam. As a member of Fighter Squadron 21 aboard the U.S.S. Midway, Harvey logged 800 hours and 230 carrier landings in the F4B fighter bomber. Once returning to the US, Harvey became interested in tribal government and returned to his silversmithing. Harvey Begay passed away on March 2 2009.

This simple yet elegant ranger set measures Buckle 1 3/4" long by 1 1/2" wide. The keeper is 1/4" wide and the tip is 3/4" long. A soft patina graces the entire set. Each piece is signed with a little less known early Hallmark of a circled HB.