Alton Bedonie

Alton Bedonie was born on November 16, 1951 in Jeddito, Arizona near Keams Canyon on the Navajo Nation.

He was born in a hogan (traditional Navajo home). Alton was the second of four children. His mother, Duffy Bedonie, was a single mom and as a a weaver, she supported her family through her art. Later on she became proficient in jewelry making as well. 

As a child, Alton often stayed with his grandparents, who raised horses, sheep and cattle. They also grew squash, melons, and corn. He cherishes those memories, and it was with his grandfather, Jim Bedonie, that he first learned silversmithing.

Alton married his wife, Lillian in 1976. He adopted Lillian’s son, Kee Yazzie, who today is an acclaimed jeweler. Around the same time, Alton met famous Navajo jeweler, Tommy Singer. He was very influential in Alton’s jewelry making. Alton’s mother also gave him some of her stamping tools, which further set him on his path of being a jeweler.

To support his family, Alton worked for the Winslow City Water Company for 25 years. He continued to make jewelry, and after he retired, he has been able to devote more time to his beautiful art. His precise silver stamping and chisel work is some of the best today. His silverwork is also often complemented with high grade and natural turquoise.