Mary Lou Tom

(Navajo) (Dine’)

Mary Tom was born Mary Begay to parents Joe Begay and Mary Dixon. She was born to the Tobaahi (Water’s Edge) Clan and for the Tsi’naajinii (Black Streaked wood Clan.) Her father worked on the railroad in Santa Cruz, California. Mary is one of eight children, though she is one of only a few members of her family to embark on the fantastic journey in the world of silversmithing.

Mary began her career in 1971 by fabricating the silver and gold beads that graced pendants and necklaces. Now she cleanly designs and hand fabricates contemporary pieces of her own. Her metal work often has a sandblasted finish that compliments the mirror finish of the silver overlay. Navajo rug patterns and Anasazi patterns are incorporated in her creative silver work. She has a classic style and an undeniable talent.

Mary currently lives in Winslow, Arizona where she continues to create amazing, unique pieces of art. Everything she does is by hand, with the utmost care and attention to detail. She has earned numerous awards at Santa Fe Indian Market, including a First Place her one of her necklaces at the 2018 Market in the Jewelry Classification.