Albert Lee — Navajo Silversmith Hallmark

Biography by Mateo James

Hallmark of Albert Lee (Navajo) — photographed by T.Skies

Albert Lee's hallmark as photographed on an authenticated piece. © Turquoise Skies Inc.

Albert Lee (1979–2022) was a Navajo silversmith based in Shiprock, New Mexico, active from 1993 until his death in 2022.

The mark

Per Hougart 5e (p. ~179, PDF p. ~241): "Marks: Albert Lee; Albert Lee of Shiprock NM." Both marks are full-name stamps, consistent with a silversmith who identified his geographic origin alongside his name.

What is known

Per Hougart 5e (p. ~179, PDF p. ~241): Albert Lee was born in 1979 and died in 2022. He was active as a silversmith from 1993, beginning work at approximately age 14. His techniques included stamp work, set stones (turquoise, coral, spiny oyster), wrapped wire, silver, and gold. "Many family members helped Lee produce his jewelry," indicating a collaborative family studio practice, though specific family members are not named in the entry.

No awards, teachers, style descriptions beyond those above, or additional biographical details were found in any other book searched.

Know more about Albert Lee? Let us know.

References

  • Hougart, Bille. Native American and Southwestern Silver Hallmarks, 5th ed. (Hougart 5e). Artist entry p. ~179 (PDF p. ~241): "Albert Lee (1979–2022; Navajo). Active since 1993. Stamp work; set stones; turquoise, coral, spiny oyster. Silver, gold; wrapped wire. Many family members helped Lee produce his jewelry. Marks: Albert Lee; Albert Lee of Shiprock NM."