George Lujan is a full Native Taos Pueblo resident who has lived there all his life. George is also a baker, jeweler, and carpenter. He is a third-generation jeweler, and that is his main passion. George grew up in a jewelry family and started focusing on the practice when he was still young.He worked in construction for 30 years and decided to retire to pursue his passion for jewelry work. As for the type, George makes the following types of jewelry:· Southwest Traditional Jewelry· and Contemporary JewelryAdditionally, George also integrates both into some of his own creative pieces.

‍Why He Picked Up Jewelry Again

‍George decided to pick up jewelry again to continue the legacy of his family. His grandfather was a well-known jeweler in Taos, and one of his uncles and brother, Lyle Wright, still do it for a living.George creates multiple pieces which sell as quickly as he makes them. Currently, George focuses on a large project that he plans to finish and get back to jewelry full time.George admits that thirty years in construction hasn't been a comfortable experience. He also acknowledges that it is the right time to transition from construction and into jewelry especially considering his health. Moreover, this will allow him to express his creativity as an artist by making all the different jewelry pieces.

Building His Brand

‍At the moment, George is working on establishing a website for his business. Additionally, he is also in the process of setting up his own shop while he slowly gets into the jewelry business full-time shortly. Other than that, George is also interested in cutting stones like his brother does and even what his grandfather did as a career.

‍George on His Brother's Work

‍Like a good brother, George is very proud of the work that his brother, Lyle, is doing. His brother is also into modeling and jewelry, and the people who come to see his work are always amazed. George also collaborates with his brother in the jewelry-making business.

‍Big Knife Productions

‍George is thinking of naming his business Big Knife Productions, which was a nickname given to him by one of his late friends. When George was nine years old, he used to carry a big knife, and that's when his friend nicknamed him Big Knife. George has high hopes for his jewelry business. He is not only eyeing the national market but the global one as well. He has a friend in Japan who has requested his jewelry for showcasing. George plans on expanding his work further to get recognized and offer value.

‍George's Message to Others

‍First, George decided to go back to his roots because he wants his kids to understand their heritage and where they come from. As for people struggling to find their passion, George thinks that the best thing is to do what you love.There is no regret in following your heart and doing what you love. This is because you won't feel tired or bothered in any way. As a result, it will be easier to invest all that you have into what you love because it is fulfilling at the end of the day.

Phone:

‍(575) 224-4799