Each year, Michael Depraida creates limited numbers of beautiful, western-themed, beaded jewelry. He sells through existing clients and by word of mouth, which is how I discovered his work.  However, he has also received awards for his work, which is featured in corporate collections and galleries around the world.

As you can see in the photos, Michael uses southwestern colors and a variety of materials, including Silver-Lined Alabaster, Silver and Gold Hashi Rings, Sea Glass, Seed Beads, Carved Bison Bone, Petroglyphs, Antique Copper Findings, Big Shadows Copper Plate Findings, Sterling Silver Airstream Charms, and sometimes a Buffalo Nickle button. The Buffalo Nickle in many of his pieces seals the western theme.

Some of the charms have a special meaning. Did you see the dangling Airstream Charm in the above piece draped over a rock? Michael lives fulltime in his Airstream RV,  his home since 1999. In the fall and winter, he is usually traveling around New Mexico, Arizona, and Southern California.

More of Michael’s work:

You can find Michael Depraida on Facebook or contact directly at: [email protected]

Bio: Michael J. Depraida