The first comprehensive, exclusive study of Navajo concha belts, this extraordinary reference work is poised to be by far the most in-depth authority on the subject. Although most books about Southwestern Indian jewelry do include concha belts peripherally, this focused research by expert Donald R. Richards serves as a truly invaluable resource. An incredible breadth of information covers not only the physical, but the human history of these unique belts: influences on southwestern art styles; materials, tools, and techniques; maker and age identification; determining authenticity; concha belts depicted in art; and even modern methods to determine metal composition by X-ray fluorescence (ERF). In addition to Navajo styles, it also includes related styles from the Zunis, Hopis, Pueblos, and the Plains Indians, plus selected related Asian examples--all of which were collected from 51 sources in 14 states and 3 foreign countries. An extensive belt catalog details 400+ individual belts, making this an extraordinary, long-awaited reference for collectors, galleries, and private dealers.