Why Buy Native-Made

WHY BUY NATIVE-MADE?

When you buy Native-made products, you are supporting indigenous households and helping to keep traditions alive. From paintings to pottery, fine jewelry, beadwork, and clothing, Native-made products are unique and handcrafted with a great amount of care and intention.

IS IT AUTHENTIC?

Since buying specialty handmade items can often come with a bigger price tag, it is very common to find art that is “inspired by” or completely counterfeit.

Did you know that it is illegal to sell an item as Native-made if it is not? The Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990 protects Native American artists from misrepresentation and prohibits products from being sold as Native-made unless they actually are.

There are a few surefire ways to make sure the item you want to purchase is authentic. The best way is to buy directly from the artist. The next best way is to purchase from a reputable dealer that can provide documentation that includes pertinent details about the artist and the artwork.

RESOURCES

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0179-buying-american-indian-arts-and-crafts

https://www.doi.gov/iacb/act