A Hidden Gem in Historic Mesilla

Tucked quietly just steps east of the Mesilla Plaza, Silver Assets is exactly the kind of discovery that makes exploring a historic town worthwhile. If you’re not looking closely, you’ll miss it—but that’s part of the charm. For nearly 35 years, this unassuming shop has been a trusted destination for some of the finest original Native American turquoise jewelry in Las Cruces.

Located in an old adobe building on Calle de Santiago, Silver Assets has become a cornerstone of Mesilla’s jewelry scene. What sets it apart isn’t just the quality of the pieces on display, but the story and knowledge behind them.

The Story Behind Silver Assets

Family Legacy in Jewelry

Two people stand behind a glass jewelry display case in a Mesilla shop, smiling at the camera. Authentic silver necklaces and jewelry adorn the walls and shelves. A dog lies on the floor in the background.

Owner Jason Dahlstrom didn’t stumble into the jewelry business—he grew up in it. His father built genuine, lasting relationships with Navajo and Hopi artisans while living in Gallup, New Mexico, a historic hub for Native American jewelry. Jason wasn’t just exposed to this world; he was raised in it, learning to recognize quality, authenticity, and craftsmanship from the ground up.

When Jason took over the family business, he brought that same commitment to sourcing directly from artists. He and his partner Tammy Carter understand provenance in a way that mass-market retailers simply can’t match. Each piece in the shop has a story—and they know it.

The Power of Knowing the Artists

Here’s what sets Jason apart from typical jewelry retailers: he actually knows the artists whose work he carries. Growing up in Gallup and spending years in the Native American jewelry scene, he developed real familiarity with individual artists and their styles. When he sources pieces for Silver Assets, that knowledge matters enormously.

Jason isn’t buying from a generic wholesaler and hoping for the best. He understands the reputation and skill of the artists represented in his inventory. He knows whose work is consistently high-quality, which artists are known for specific techniques, and which pieces represent genuine craftsmanship. That’s not something you can fake or learn from a price list.

This matters because authentic Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni jewelry requires an eye that goes beyond surface-level inspection. Jason’s decades of familiarity with these artists and their work gives him credibility that mass-market retailers simply can’t claim.

What You’ll Find There

Turquoise Jewelry That Tells a Story

Silver Assets specializes in turquoise—the gemstone that defines Southwest jewelry. But they also carry Navajo pearls, Sand Paintings, Hopi kachinas, and other unique gift items. The shop is small but meticulously curated. Cases display everything from bold statement pieces to delicate earrings, each with its own character.

Expert Knowledge

If you’re serious about learning what makes a piece valuable, Jason and Tammy are genuinely worth talking to. They’re patient, friendly, and willing to explain the difference between commercial turquoise jewelry and authentic Native American pieces. Whether you’re a collector or a first-time buyer, they’ll help you find something that feels right.

The Perfect Time to Visit

Getting There

Silver Assets is located just one block east of San Albino Church on Calle de Santiago just off of Avenida de Mesilla. It’s part of the Mesilla historic district, so you can easily combine a visit with a walk around the plaza, lunch, or a trip to one of the local galleries.

Visit Silver Assets

Location: 1948 Calle de Santiago, Mesilla, NM 88046
Phone: (575) 523-8747
Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–5:30pm, Sun 12–5:30pm
Online: silverassetsnm.com | Facebook | Instagram

Why We Spotlight Local Businesses

At Live Love Las Cruces, we highlight local businesses like Silver Assets because they’re the backbone of our community. Jason and Tammy represent something increasingly rare: deep expertise, family legacy, and a genuine commitment to quality over convenience. They’re not trying to move volume. They’re trying to help you find something beautiful that will last.

That kind of business deserves attention. That’s why we’re shining a light on Silver Assets.


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