About this Event
From early stone carving to tufa caste textured gold and rare Lander Blue turquoise, Robert is a third-generation jewelry artist based in New Mexico who is exploring themes of ancient Navajo mythology, traditional materials as well as his own unique contemporary vision.
Melanie Grant is a writer and curator having worked as a journalist for over 25 years at The Times, The FT, The Independent, The Guardian, The BBC and The Economist where she specialised in jewellery, watches and luxury for 16 years. She won The Media Excellence category of The Gem Awards voted for by the Jewelers of America in March 2021. In 2025 she commissioned and co-authored The Jewelry Book.
Born into an indigenous family of jewelers, Robert W. Begay is a third-generation artist who began learning his craft at just four years old, carving tufa stone under the guidance of his parents, Darryl Dean and Rebecca T. Begay. Working primarily in 18k gold and natural American turquoise, he brings together tufa casting, metalsmithing, intricate stone inlay, and diamond setting. His work has earned numerous awards and an artist fellowship.
NYCJW26: November 16–22, 2026
Each November, NYC Jewelry Week presents The Week, a seven-day celebration of jewelry and the people, ideas, and craftsmanship behind it. NYCJW26 brings together a global audience for a dynamic mix of in-person and virtual experiences across New York City and beyond.
Explore the full , featuring exhibitions, shopping experiences, retail collaborations, talks, panels, workshops, demonstrations, tours, and more. Virtual programs will be streamed on YouTube, while in-person events offer opportunities to engage directly with artists, designers, curators, collectors, and other members of the jewelry community.
With many programs free and open to the public, NYC Jewelry Week invites everyone—from longtime jewelry enthusiasts to those just beginning to explore the field—to discover the artistry, ideas, histories, and craftsmanship that make jewelry so compelling.
Join us for NYCJW26, November 16–22, 2026.
Event venue & nearby stays
F.I.T. Bob Fisch Presentation Hall, 220 W 28th St, New York, United States