Santa Fe Craftsman was founded in 1991 by Bob and Dianna Criswell, whose love for Southwestern and Native jewelry inspired them to create a space where others could experience the beauty of Indigenous art. Bob’s connection to Navajo culture began in grade school on the Navajo Reservation in Kayenta, AZ, while Dianna’s roots in Fort Collins, CO, fueled her lifelong passion for Southwestern art.
In January 2023, Michele and Nicole became the proud new owners of Santa Fe Craftsman, carrying forward a legacy that began over three decades ago.
Michele, originally from Pennsylvania, earned her degree in Business and Retailing from Penn State University. She moved to Colorado in 1981, where she met and married her husband, Jay, in 1983. Their daughter Nicole was born in 1985. Before taking the reins at Santa Fe Craftsman, Michele spent 32 years in the Auto Auction Industry, honing her business acumen and customer service skills.
Nicole, a Colorado native, was born and raised in this beautiful state. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University. In 2010, she married her husband, Chad, and together they have two wonderful daughters, Braelynn and Addie.
Raquel started at SFC in 2016. Originally from Brazil, she has over 20 years of retail and sales experience. Her favorite stone is Golden Hill Turquoise and her favorite artist is David Rosales.
Larissa began at SFC in 2018. She is a Fort Collins native and loves helping people find that perfect piece of jewelry. Her favorite stone is Spiny Oyster Shell. She loves the big squash blossom necklaces.
Jim is of the Chickasaw Nation. He is a retired school teacher and a proud father of a first responder. With over 30 years of art and jewelry sales, he has a love for all things Southwest. Be sure to have him take you outside the store to do the "sunshine look" of your jewelry purchase.
Kendal started SFC in 2022. Originally from the mitten state, she grew up with a love of jewelry and stones. Her favorite stone is Spiny Oyster Shell. Kendal has a love for rock hunting.
Beginning her journey at SFC in 2018, Jaeda was born and raised in Fort Collins. Jaeda is a recent honors graduate from the University of Colorado Boulder with a passion for jewelry. Sporting a ring on every finger, Jaeda claims Sonoran Turquoise as her favorite stone.
Here at Santa Fe Craftsman, we strive to provide merchandise that is of the highest quality and craftsmanship. All of our handcrafted jewelry is made of Sterling Silver, using real, precious stones from across the United States and the world. Our handcrafted pieces are made by Indigenous artists from New Mexico.
Santa Fe Craftsman has grown into a cherished destination for those seeking authentic Southwestern jewelry and art. We proudly offer a diverse collection of handmade pieces from various Indigenous tribes, including the Navajo, Zuni, Santa Domingo, Santa Clara, Acoma, Cherokee, and Hopi. Each item reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the American Southwest, bringing a piece of this unique heritage into your life. Showcasing over 100 different artists in our store, you are sure to find the piece that speaks to you.
