Our Story
Our Story
HERITAGE
Cowgirls & Indians is a rich curation of Navajo jewelry, expertly handcrafted in the heart of Navajoland, New Mexico. Our products are meticulously crafted to tell a story—one that transcends generations. Stories of heritage, craftsmanship, and the powerful intersection of Indigenous and Western cultures. Our collections weave together the rich traditions of the Diné (Navajo) people and the enduring spirit of Texas.
We are based in Austin, Texas, Indigenous-owned by a Cowgirl and Diné (Navajo) Girl. Our foundation rests on the vibrant histories of our founders. Stacy, a cowgirl and 5th-generation Austinite brings with her a heritage deeply rooted in Texas history. Kailey, a Diné girl draws from generations of Navajo tradition.
Yá’át’ééh shik’éí dóó shidine’é, Kailey James yinishyé. Bílagáana dine’é éí nishłį́, tábąąhi dine’é éí báshíshchíín. Bílagáana dine’é éí dashicheii. Tsi’naajinii dine’é éí dashinalí. Ákót’éego diné asdzáán nishłį́.
Hello my relatives and my people, my name is Kailey James. I am from the White Clan, born for the Water’s Edge Clan. My maternal grandfather is from the white clan. My paternal grandfather is from the Black Streak Wood Clan. In this way, I am a Navajo woman.
Navajo Silversmiths
LEE CHARLEY
At the heart of our work is our close partnership with the esteemed silversmith Mr. Lee Charley. Lee Charley is a prominent fourth-generation Navajo (Diné) silversmith who brings over 40 years of experience in the field of fine jewelry. He began making jewelry in the early 1980s under the tutelage of his mother, Nellie Charley, and has since passed on his invaluable knowledge to his daughter, Mykaiah Charley, and son, Matthew Charley.
Lee is widely recognized for his expertise in ultraclean stampwork and exceptional mirror polish finishes, which play a vital role in ensuring the authenticity and quality of each piece we offer. His collaborations with prestigious brands such as Ralph Lauren, Montecristi Hats, and Malouf On The Plaza speak volumes about his artistry and reputation.
WYATT LEE-ANDERSON
Wyatt Lee-Anderson is a fourth-generation Navajo (Diné) silversmith whose lineage traces back to Manuelito and Mexican Springs. He began working with silver at the age of twelve under the direct tutelage of his late father, Allison "Snowhawk" Lee. Wyatt's early foundation was passed down from his Shinálí (paternal grandmother)—the process of dome forming, soldering, and hand-polishing sterling silver discs to perfection.
This commitment led to early recognition, including First Place in the Youth Jewelry Division at the Santa Fe Indian Market in 2003. Since that pivotal success, Wyatt has maintained an unbroken presence at the prestigious SWAIA and The Heard Museum Indian Markets. Today, Wyatt is widely recognized for honoring his father's emphasis on high-quality natural Turquoise and a strict adherence to traditional silversmithing techniques, ensuring that each piece he creates is “something beautiful on the Earth for people to enjoy.”
Craftsmanship
At Cowgirls & Indians, we don’t just create Western accessories, we craft heirlooms. Our Navajo handcrafted pieces are meticulously designed to stand the test of time, made from precious metals .925 Sterling Silver & 18K Gold, sustainable leathers, and handpicked turquoise stones cut by professional lapidaries. A rich curation of finely crafted Navajo goods made from traditional techniques for modern collectors. We are proud to bring authentic Navajo craftsmanship beyond the 4 Corners.
INDIGENOUS MADE
At Cowgirls & Indians, our mission is to honor and preserve the legacy of Navajo silversmithing through a deep commitment to tradition and Native representation. We work closely with our Silversmith partners to ensure ethical production practices that provide generous wages, intellectual property protection, and showcase true Navajo craftsmanship. Each heirloom is handmade by Indigenous Artisans in Navajoland, New Mexico. By working directly with Native artists and reservation-based vendors, each purchase elevates Native voices and contributes to economic stability. The art of silversmithing, stampwork, sand-casting, and turquoise setting is central to Navajo culture and identity. We ensure that these skills remain financially viable for future generations.