Nighthorse. Step Up Ring. Sorrel Sky Gallery. Online Art Gallery.

Nighthorse - The Legacy Continues

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Time to read 4 min

the legacy

In the world of fine jewelry, few stories are as compelling as that of the Nighthorse collection—a narrative that spans generations, weaving together tradition, innovation, and family passion. This is more than just a jewelry line; it's a living testament to the artistic journey of Ben Nighthorse, a master jeweler whose creative spirit has illuminated the craft for over eight decades.


At 92 years old, Ben Nighthorse is seen as a benchmark of artistic excellence. His journey began when a spark of creativity first ignited at the young age of 12. Today, that spark has become a generational legacy. Daughter Shanan Campbell and grandson Luke Longfellow, are breathing new life into a jewelry line that has long been coveted by collectors and art enthusiasts alike.

"This new collection ... it's a celebration of my father's incredible body of work."

— Shanan Campbell

Ray Tracey-Cody Sanderson-Shanan Campbell-Ben Nighthorse-Kevin Red Star-Wes Studi
Ray Tracey, Cody Sanderson, Shanan Campbell, Ben Nighthorse, Kevin Red Star, and Wes Studi at Indian Market in Santa Fe, New Mexico

the next generation

"Our goal is to honor my grandfather's original designs while emphasizing their ... wearability."

— Luke Longfellow

The next chapter of the Nighthorse legacy is being written by Ben's daughter and grandson —both fully committed to preserving and evolving the family's artistic heritage. Their approach is one of profound respect and innovative vision, bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design.


"This new collection, from the next generation for the next generation, is a dream come true," Shanan explains. "It's a celebration of my father's incredible body of work." Her words resonate with the deep familial connection that pulses through every piece of Nighthorse jewelry.


Luke Longfellow, a Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America in New York, brings a sophisticated understanding of contemporary design to the family's craft. "Our goal is to honor my grandfather's original designs while emphasizing their versatility and wearability," he notes. "We're creating pieces that are both a statement and a comfortable luxury."

Ben Nighthorse and Luke Longfellow
Ben, teaching a young Luke, in his studio
Ben Nighthorse and Luke Longfellow
Ben and Luke, working together in his studio

the artistry

Each Nighthorse piece is a testament to uncompromising quality and artistic integrity. The collection exclusively utilizes 18k gold and platinum, adorned with carefully selected precious gems and stones. The intricate inlay work, performed at the Nighthorse Studio in Colorado, represents a technique that has been carefully honed and passed down through generations. From the signature of Ben's original jeweler's stamp to the specially designed chains that carry the weight of family history; every element is intentional. 


the bridge

"This project has been rejuvenating ... deeply satisfying."

— Ben Nighthorse

Ben and his wife Linda remain actively involved in this continuing journey, providing insights and inspiration that keep the collection deeply authentic. "This project has been rejuvenating," Ben shares. "Seeing my life's work through the eyes of my daughter and my grandson and knowing it will continue to bring joy to people for years to come is deeply satisfying."


The new Nighthorse collection represents a delicate balance—pieces that are simultaneously familiar and fresh. They pay homage to Ben's original designs while speaking to contemporary aesthetics. It's a careful dance of preservation and evolution, where each piece becomes a statement of both personal and familial identity.


the commitment

Designed and crafted entirely within the United States, from conception to completion, the Nighthorse collection is a testament to American craftsmanship. This commitment reflects not just a manufacturing choice, but a deeper philosophy of supporting local artistry and maintaining the highest standards of quality.


The collection is more than jewelry—it's a narrative of artistic continuity. Each piece tells a story of generational craft, of traditions reborn, and of a family united in their pursuit of creating beauty that endures. For collectors and enthusiasts, Nighthorse represents more than an acquisition; it's an investment in a living, breathing artistic legacy.


As the Nighthorse collection continues to evolve, it serves as a powerful reminder that true artistry is timeless. It transcends generations, speaks to individual expression, and connects us to something greater than ourselves. Each piece is not just a work of art—it's a continuation of a story that began decades ago and continues to unfold.


In the world of fine jewelry, few collections can claim such a rich, personal history. Nighthorse is more than a brand—it's a family, a tradition, and a testament to the enduring power of creative passion.


Welcome to the next generation of Nighthorse jewelry—where legacy meets innovation, and timeless elegance finds new expression.


More From the Nighthorse Collection

NIGHTHORSE CHAIN


This chain truly has multi-generational roots. Ben Nighthorse was taught by his grandfather to form the links for a necklace by shaping silver around popsicle sticks. Nighthorse later taught his grandson, Luke, this same method. As a young boy, Luke, under the watchful eye of his grandfather, handmade a chain that is the inspiration for this one.


Two links from that original chain, created by Luke in Nighthorse’s studio in Colorado, have been copied and cast to form a new, legacy necklace. Available in 18k gold or Platinum, this 20” chain can be worn alone or with a pendant. 


Be sure to reach out to our team of art advisors with any questions about the Nighthorse collection seen in this blog. We'd love to see you in the gallery, where you can enjoy these pieces in person.