Rewrite Important Info:
Freddy Charley
Born and raised in Shiprock, New Mexico, Freddy grew up among ten siblings, 3 older sisters, 3 older brothers, 2 younger sisters, and 2 younger brothers. His father is deceased survived by his mother who weaves Yei-bi-chei rugs. His parents brought them up with Navajo traditions and at the same time encouraged them to get a good education.
Freddy graduated in 1981 from Shiprock High School then moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Took Diesel mechanic classes at TVI and graduated in 1984. He then worked in the field of Diesel mechanic for about ten years, while at the same time practicing how to make and buff jewelry.
He met my wife Rena in 1984 and they have 3 boys ages 26, 20, and 10 years old, and 1 granddaughter 10 mos. Rena got him into the jewelry business because her family was in the jewelry business doing piecework.
Freddy got started by buffing and polishing for his mother-in-law. Later he got a buffing job and learned how the pieces were put together. Soon he worked his way up to a silversmith position with his welding skills and artistic talents. He gets his ideas from attending different tribal dances and going to all sorts of art shows. His favorite pieces are the 3 dimensional one-of-a-kind kachinas among contemporary jewelry. He also works with gold and is learning how to perfect in-lay work. Making masters for casting is also a specialty.