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Message:: [QUOTE="Any Jewelry, post: 4273285, member: 2844"]When you look at origins, just about no one on earth is native anything. People originated in one place, migrated to other places due to climate change, invasions, or other circumstances, since the beginning of humankind. I like the Canadian term 'First Nations' for Native Americans. Although there was at least one earlier migration, it is likely the current First Nations really were the first to build nations, rather than being scattered families.But of course their origin is largely Asian. I live in the Netherlands, where no one is 100% native Dutch, in spite of assumptions and claims. Even if you only look at Dutch families after the year 1600, an estimated 98% has foreign ancestors added to the mix. There is even a substantial percentage of Asian and African mixed in over centuries, often without the current generation knowing it, because their relatives have looked 'European' for generations.I think a person's identity is largely socio-cultural. Unfortunately (perceived) identity is often politicized. As for Native American jewellery, I have given my opinion on the situation many times. Of course my view is that of an outsider.The current US legislation denies NA arts their roots, and effectively denies the existence of earlier generations of artists. I know this sounds harsh, but imo, it unintentionally adds to cultural genocide.A proper hallmarking system is needed. I would be happy if that were introduced for the entire US, just like it is in place in other parts of the world. And I mean real hallmarking, not just using a store-bought 'sterling' or '925' punch on a piece of silver.But, just looking at the NA situation, why not have a system like the Hopi Arts and Crafts Silvercraft Guild, in short the Hopi Guild. Founded in 1949, with their own registration and marking system. A sensible solution to ensure quality and controlled marking.[/QUOTE]

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