Over $175,000 in Handcrafted Native American Jewelry Pilfered from Arizona Family

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — After a grueling 12-hour drive from Flagstaff to San Jose, California, Amiya Kaminski and her grandparents, Maryetta and Henry Jackson, were poised to attend the Stanford University Powwow. They arrived with a trailer filled with over $175,000 worth of handcrafted Native American jewelry, a culmination of family tradition and artistry.

Upon returning from dinner, the family was devastated to find their trailer had been burglarized overnight. The San Jose Police Department confirmed they are actively investigating the theft. The loss transcends monetary value—every piece of jewelry was crafted by hand, showcasing techniques passed down through generations.

Kaminski noted on a GoFundMe page that while the jewelry’s worth ranged from $175,000 to $300,000, the impact on their family’s legacy is irreplaceable. The jewelry business, started in 1972, utilized sterling silver, gold, copper, and a variety of natural stones. Kaminski emphasized that losing this inventory not only jeopardizes their business but threatens their heritage.

“This loss is not just financial — it’s deeply personal,” Kaminski wrote. “Without their inventory, they have nothing to sell, no way to recoup their costs, and no means to continue the business in the short term.”

The family is actively seeking donations through their GoFundMe campaign as they await updates from law enforcement and insurance. They also encourage the public to report any sightings of the stolen jewelry, which bears specific markings, such as the tribal affiliation, “Diné,” and a hallmark featuring a conjoined “HJ.”

Additionally, a reward is being offered for information leading to the recovery of the stolen items or the apprehension of those responsible. Kaminski highlighted her grandparents’ unwavering commitment to their community: “Maryetta and Henry are among the kindest, most generous people. Now, we’re asking for your support in return.”