Kay Begay Rogers

Using traditional methods of jewelry fabrication, Kay’s emphasis is on simple design. Her work is often referred to as being modernistic in design, which possibly comes from influence by her father, well-known artist Kenneth Begay. Kay’s work is exceptional, with great detail in her designs. Her jewelry is at home on and off the reservation and has the distinction of being perpetually fashionable.

Kay remembers her father softly whistling Navajo songs while he worked at his bench, a place where he was always at peace. Kenneth Begay passed away in December 1977 following a lifetime of metal work, first as a blacksmith and later as a silversmith. The Kenneth Begay style is carried forward by the creative hands of his talented and well known children, Kay, Sylvia, and Harvey Begay.

Distinguished in her own right, Kay has been working as a jeweler since 1975, Her style is contemporary, balanced with basic Navajo designs. Incorporating silver and various stones, Kay’s jewelry reflects her father’s style, the style of Phase I silversmithing. Each piece is a unique creation and no two are exactly alike. Mrs. Rodgers has 3 children, two grandchildren and lives in Durango, Colorado. Her interests are local politics, bridge, and antiques.