The Spanish word for shell is concha, commonly translated into concho. It’s thought that these jewelry adornments acquired their name from resembling shells.

The Navajo people have a long and vibrant history which is still visible today in their culture and art. Their jewelry is particularly noteworthy, as the unique artistry found in traditional items such as concho belts has been passed down through generations.

Concho belts are one of the most iconic pieces of Navajo jewelry, and they tell an insightful story of the culture and its evolution. When describing the development of concho belts, most historians use phases to describe how concho belts evolved.