CIAC, Inc. promotes the The Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990 (P.L. 101-644) is a truth-in-advertising law that prohibits misrepresentation in marketing of Indian arts and crafts products within the United States. If you purchase an art or craft product represented to you as Indian-made, and you learn that it is not, first contact the dealer to request a refund. If the dealer does not respond to your request, you can also contact your local Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, and the local District Attorney's office, as you would with any consumer fraud complaint. Second, contact the Indian Arts and Crafts Board with your written complaint regarding violations of the Act.



Our Sponsors



We are thankful to be sponsored by CIAC, Inc.

Native Jewelers Society is thrilled to sponsored by The Council for Indigenous Arts and Culture (CIAC, Inc.) CIAC, Inc. promotes the recognition and public awareness of authentic Native Arts through workshops, educational events, and Native Art Shows. CIAC, Inc. has collaborated with NJS members to help to promote consumer education while providing opportunities for Native Artists to promote their art.

Who is CIAC, Inc.?

 

The Council for Indigenous Arts and Culture is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization whose purpose is to foster, develop and contribute to the support and understanding of authentic Indian arts, crafts, customs, traditions and cultures.


CIAC, Inc. promotes the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990.

 

The mission of CIAC, Inc. is to allow NJS Silversmiths to share experiences and to encourage artistic, innovative creations. CIAC, Inc. promotes Educational Workshops while giving economical opportunities to Silversmiths. CIAC, Inc. / NJS members are committed to maintaining high quality work with integrity and honesty while preserving the indigenous cultures from which they come. Members are dedicated to improve educational opportunities for fellow silversmiths. CIAC, Inc.creates intergenerational silversmith workshops to bring together elders and youth to share and learn for creativity.

- Promoting Consumer Education in Authentic Native Art

- Elder and Youth integration

- Creating Opportunity for Native Artists

- Working to Guarantee Authenticity in the Marketplace

 

CIAC, Inc. Recommendations to Promote Aweareness?

 

- Imported and mass-produced Indian style art is putting Native American artists out of business

- Any item that is made and sold as Native America Indian art must be from a state or federally recognized Indian
Nation recognized by the United States Government

 

- Is there a hallmark or signature of the maker on the item? Is it marked sterling?

 

- Is the item you are purchasing a hand made, hand crafted, or machine-made product?

 

- What type of materials is item made of? Natural materials, stabilized materials, plastic or man-made materials

 

- Do you feel it was worth what you paid for it?


- Remember the most important point of all. Always get a written receipt from the business or artist that includes information stated above. This is a legal document in the event of a problem.

- If unsure of what you are buying, Please ask!!!