Born in 1972, Bryon
is the son of Frank and Artie Yellowhorse, and the younger brother of Alvin.
His uncle was Chief Juan Yellowhorse, most known for his roadside jewelry
stand on US89 near Cameron and later his Trading Post along the Arizona/New
Mexico border.
Very tiny
hand-cut stones are the hallmark of a Bryon Yellowhorse piece. He is known
to compose his pieces in seemingly random color patterns – but to the
discriminating eye, each color is chosen with much thought in mind. A Navajo
Eye Dazzler rug has been used as his inspiration for some of his pieces. He
adds excitement to the piece by adding the occasional raised stone.
Bryon had
much the same beginnings in the jewelry world as brother, Alvin. Selling to
tourists at the side of the road proved to be a valuable learning ground for
the Yellowhorses. And through much hard work and determination, as well as a
love of his work, Bryon has excelled in his craft. Today, his jewelry may be
found in fine galleries all over the country.
Being
recognized by countless awards for their work, Bryon and Alvin were both
featured in the August 1999 edition of “Smithsonian Magazine.” The article
highlighted the use of turquoise in contemporary Native American jewelry,
and anyone with the pleasure of seeing some of Bryon’s work up close, can
see why the Smithsonian would be happy to feature his work..
Smithsonian Magazine, August 1999 "The Enduring Allure of Turquoise"
