Boyd Tsosie is a jeweler who draws inspiration from the rich heritage of his Navajo traditions. Born in 1954, he has been making jewelry since he was sixteen years of age. Kenneth Begaye, a teacher at the Navajo Community College on the Navajo Reservation, inspired Boyd at a young age. Boyd gives credit to Kenneth for teaching him his trade. Over the years Boyd has developed a contemporary style of work primarily in 14K gold combined with turquoise, coral, lapis, and sugilite. Boyd feels that he is creating “tomorrow’s tradition” in Navajo jewelry by being given the rights and prayers by his elders to create his special pieces. He is featured in Navajo Indian Jewelry and Enduring Traditions by Jerry and Lois Jacka and North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment by Lois Dubin. Boyd’s jewelry is currently on display in New Mexico at the Jewels of the Southwest Exhibit 2002.