Derrick Gordon

Derrick Gordon

For more than two decades, Navajo silversmith Derrick Gordon has been refining a style that is deeply rooted in tradition. When he first began, his work focused on smaller cluster pieces—carefully set stones arranged in classic Navajo patterns. Over time, his jewelry has evolved into bold, fully handmade creations, built from ingot silver and shaped entirely by hand. Today, Derrick’s work reflects a commitment to traditional silversmithing, where every detail—from stamping to stone setting—is done the old way.

Interview with the Artist
Daisy Cowboy (DC) – How long have you been making jewelry?

Derrick Gordon (DG) – I’ve been doing this most of my life. I started out making smaller pieces, just learning how everything worked.

DC – When we first started working together, you were doing a lot of cluster work. Was that where you really got your start?

DG – Yeah, that’s what I did in the beginning. Cluster work helped me learn how to set stones and build everything up. It takes time to get those patterns right.

Like many Navajo silversmiths, Derrick’s early work reflects the importance of repetition and precision. Cluster jewelry—especially with turquoise and coral—requires careful balance and symmetry. It’s a foundation that many artists build on before moving into more complex, handmade techniques.

DC – Your work today feels very different. What changed?

DG – I wanted to do more handmade work. Using ingot silver, making everything from scratch—that’s what I enjoy now. It takes longer, but it’s worth it.

DC – What does working with ingot silver mean to you?

DG – You’re doing everything yourself. Melting the silver, rolling it out, shaping it. It’s more traditional. You can see it in the finished piece.

That shift is easy to see in Derrick’s jewelry today. His cuffs often feature heavy silver, deep stamp work, and carefully selected stones. The designs feel balanced but powerful—each element working together without feeling overworked. The use of ingot silver gives his pieces a weight and presence that stands apart from cast work.

DC – Your stamp work has really become a big part of your style. Did that develop over time?

DG – Yeah, that comes with practice. You learn different stamps and how to use them together. It’s all about spacing and flow.

DC – What are you working on these days?

DG – Mostly cuffs and bracelets. I still do cluster work sometimes, but I like making heavier pieces now.

From early cluster designs to bold, traditional cuffs, Derrick Gordon’s work shows a clear progression—one that reflects both patience and dedication to the craft. His jewelry carries the influence of Navajo silversmithing traditions while continuing to evolve through his own hands.