Eugene Michael Contreras, started
making jewelry in 1959, as an apprentice of his father, master
silversmith, Alberto Contreras Sr.
In the late 1940's, Alberto Contreras
was taught by master silversmith Frank Patania Sr., whose classic
contemporary style has been passed down into the Contreras family.
(Frank Patania's jewelry pieces
are now collected in the Smithsonian Institute)
During the 1970's when Native American jewelry was highly fashionable,
Alberto Contreras hired Native American silversmiths to make their
tribe's style of jewelry.
Navajo jewelry, Zuni jewelry, and
Hopi jewelry, were mostly sold at that time.
Master silversmith Eugene Michael
Contreras, continues a Tucson Family tradition, making all forms
and styles of custom designed hand wrought jewelry.
All turquoise used at Contreras
Gallery is natural and high grade. It was purchased by Alberto
Contreras Sr. prior to 1970. (unless otherwise stated)
It was mined between 1950 and 1970,
from Arizona, Nevada, and Colorado. Contreras Gallery does not
used any type of treated turquoise.
Below are samples of jewelry
made by E. M. Contreras, which depict Native American designs
and influence.
