DAVID PRITCHARD
David is an accomplished self-taught silversmith. He dedicated over 50 years to his craftsmanship, starting his journey in the 1970s, a time when turquoise jewelry gained great popularity. Born in Alabama in 1947, David was raised in New Mexico. His grandparents were among the early homesteaders who relocated to New Mexico, and David continues to reside on their property in a small village nestled in the mountains, approximately 60 miles from Albuquerque.
Before embarking on his silversmith journey, David served in the military and was stationed in Vietnam from 1967 to 1969. After his military service, he delved into jewelry making and began showcasing his creations at street fairs across the United States for over 15 years.
David takes great pride in crafting each piece of jewelry by hand, starting from scratch. His creations reflect his spontaneous spirit and draw inspiration from the aesthetic traditions of the American Southwest, his beloved home. Using a combination of brass, copper, sterling silver, gold, and semi-precious stones, he creates contemporary compositions that merge abstract forms with wearable functionality. His designs encompass a diverse range, including award-winning bracelets, rings, belt buckles, and more.
Over the course of his silversmith career, David's unique pieces have been exhibited and juried in numerous locations across the United States, earning him recognition and acclaim. His signature style, which he developed through self-teaching, is seamlessly woven into each one-of-a-kind piece he creates.