What is the koncho?

The Concho belt is a distinctive type of belt that is a functional and work of art. In fact, conch belts are considered to be highly valued pieces of jewelry because they are usually designed from knitted leather and round or oval pieces of silver decorated with gems. These ornaments are displayed in groups and are named from the Spanish word Conchas to mean "shells". For this reason, the Concho belt is sometimes referred to as the Concha belt. However, its development was influenced by the Spanish, Mexicans and perhaps other people in the area. Initially, Diné learned the art of metal working from the Mexicans, and the oldest decoration of the conch belts was probably the adaptation of decorative bridle clips that were there. Later, when the trade with Europeans increased in the plains, Diné began to produce Silvehm to make Conchas from the coins they brought with them. In fact, Diné was the first native Americans in the region who produced silver jewelry.

Concho strip worn by men and women is still handmade according to traditional standards by qualified craftsmen. Now, as at the beginning of the 19th century, these belts are appreciated for much more than decorative value. Each of them is designed to tell the story of a craftsman who created it, whose meaning is not lost when the belt ownership is handed over. In fact, Concho's belts represent an oral tradition that is handed over to each generation in the family. Of course, they also represent considerable material wealth and can load very nice profits if they are sold or traded.

Concho authentic belts were once reserved exclusively for festive purposes. In fact, it is a place where the sequencing conch and stones can be used to the design becomes meaningful. For example, turquoise, the most commonly used gem, is recognized for its healing properties. Other popular materials used to decorate conch belts are Lapis, Red Coral andShell Oyster.

While the gems are an important element for Concho belts, not all conch contain overlap of gems. Some are simply brushed and stamped. In addition, some are made of copper rather than silver.

In addition to materials, the antiquity is a concho belt. In fact, very early pieces are particularly preferred because of the beautiful patina that metal and skin develops over time. These specimens are also often quite robust and contain eight or nine large pieces of coin silver, which increase its visual attraction and its weight. While some of these pieces are now located in museums and private collections, many of them are still disseminated for sale by antique and ethnic sellers of jewelry.