Effie Calavaza

Effie is from Zuni, New Mexico. She incorporates large stones and snake designs in her work, using both turquoise and coral. The majority of the work she does is cast. In 1956 Effie began silversmithing which she learned from her husband, Juan Calavaza, who is now deceased (ca. 1970). Effie shared Juan's mark, JUAN C. ZUNI until his death. After his death, Effie marks her work, EFFIE C. ZUNI. This hallmark is still used by Effie and her three daughters. Over the years, her daughters, Georgiana Yatsattie, Gloria Jean Garcia and Susie Calavaza, have assisted Effie in jewelry making. Despite many rumors, Effie is still making jewelry to this day. Effie's work is collected throughout the world.