South West Connection — Local services in Santa Fe

South West Connection sells unique Native American jewelry that I frankly don't see elsewhere. Why? The owners buy directly from the Native American crafts people themselves. Chris in particular has been buying from them for several decades at this point. Long standing relationships mean that they have some of the best pieces you will find outside of the reservations (and maybe even there). They acquired the Kokopelli Gallery (on the other side of The Shed from their shop, and also called Santa Fe Arts) within the last year or so - and today they still carry the less-expensive (but equally unique) jewelry, including a case to the left of the front door that has vintage and old pawn jewelry that you won't see elsewhere and is often one-of-a-kind. We found several Hopi storyteller rings there in fact (classic Hopi jewelry is in very short supply).

Their main gallery (brightly lit) is dedicated to the higher-end Native American jewelry makers whose names are known world-wide for their creative design and quality fabrication. Calvin Begay is just one of them. You'll find his work in other shops in Santa Fe, but you'll see his more unique and new pieces in South West Connection.

I've also found Chris to be great to negotiate with, and as others have said they will work within your budget. He treated my daughter and me wonderfully while we were in the store - even clipped a little set of silver earrings on each of us - a little lagniappe for what was a major purchase during our visit in September 2021. :)

As for repairs, two of the necklaces I purchased had pierced earrings, which I needed to change to clip ons. We were leaving in 4 days; Chris and company had them ready for me to pick up in three, and the work was excellent. I also had the statements of value to use for insurance purposes, and he provided nice presentation boxes for them.

I have read the reviews and frankly the complaints have been due to what were likely internal issues in repairs and shipping. I believe that many/all of these have since been sorted. Don't let them hold you back from visiting this shop, especially if you are a serious art enthusiast and/or collector. You will be glad you took the time to do this, and don't miss that case in the smaller gallery. For people who seek out vintage (like me) it should be one of your main stops...

I have shopped at this store for several years. All of the staff and the owners have been a pleasure to deal with. I would tell them what I was looking for or what I desperately needed and they would locate it. Their inventory is awesome, lots to choose from. I have sent several people their and they have been extremely happy with the prices and quality. Great store.

I had the pleasure of returning to Santa Fe last week. Imagine my surprise running into customers I had met many years ago while shopping at SOUTHWEST CONNECTIONS. Sharing our past purchases and experiences and why we keep coming back to this fabulous store. You feel like family when you walk in. The selection of Calvin Begay jewelry is authentic and the best in Santa Fe. The owner, Karim only sells the best and most interesting examples of Indian pottery and jewelry. Customer service is exceptional. I laughed when Karim offered to buy back pieces I’ve purchased through the years. I am the proud owner of several pieces of jewelry and pottery all purchased at his store. The new collection of diamond and turquoise jewelry is fabulous. Cross the court yard to the smaller shop and experience jewelry from various Indian artist, try on a new ring, and necklaces no one else has. Each and every experience I have while shopping at SOUTHWEST CONNECTION has been unique and rewarding. Thank you all for your knowledge of the inventory and sharing your attention and time with your customers. You can trust that your purchases...

I purchased a sterling silver belt while on vacation. When I returned home, I discovered the end of the belt did not fit through the silver loops. I called the store and Chris was very nice and said if I sent it back, they would fix it. I then asked if they would consider changing the belt since I wanted a wider one. He sent me several pictures and we agreed on a belt . A few days later I called and spoke with Ash. I told him my selection and told him the price that Chris quoted me. He offered me a lower price and I gave him my credit card over the phone. A few minutes later, I received a call from Saul who said that Chris would not accept the price and I would need to pay an additional 25.00 to get the belt. After several conversations, I agreed.

I received the belt which was supposed to be heavier than what I returned since the additional cost was $275.00. Well, it is not heavier. Plus the buckle does not fit the belt properly and the first time I wore it, the tip fell off. I have emailed and called but Chris will not return my call.

I have given him several opportunities but have not heard from him in over a week. I feel that once they received my money, did had no future interest in what my issue was.

I would highly suggest that you think twice before you decide to deal with this company.

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