Ray Lovato (b. 1946) Biography

Ray Lovato is known for his traditional, hand-made beads of natural turquoise.  He learned the craft from his parents, Ike and Tonita Lovato, starting at age eleven.  After serving two tours of duty in Vietnam, Ray tried construction work but found he was much more content using the skills he had learned from his parents. 

Now, most of his seven children have worked with him and learned the art.  Lovato is known for his tab necklaces in the shape of corn kernels which they symbolize.  He uses high quality American turquoise such as Lone Mountain, Royston, and Sleeping Beauty.