Ortega's on the Plaza was founded as a physical store front in 1971. But, the Ortega family's roots in buying and selling Southwestern and Native American arts and crafts date back to 1871. It holds the distinction of being the oldest jewelry store operating on Santa Fe's Historic Plaza. The offerings here are expensive, but in my opinion there's no guesswork on the authenticity and quality of what you're purchasing. Anytime I'm in town, I make it a point to come in and drool over the bolo tie designs, most of which I can't (or won't?) afford. Like anything else Southwest-wise, I find that it takes awhile to sort through the massive selections to find the precious few that I then obsess over. read more

I used to love Ortega's however the last two times I've been in I dropped some serious $. Two of those items were defective, the most recent being an expensive pair of Spiny oyster hoop earrings that fell apart the first 10 minutes I had them on. There goes $600. I think I would have better luck elsewhere. NEVER AGAIN! read more

See all

Go to place for Native American jewelry on the plaza. A bit pricey, but a wide selection, something for everyone here. Staff is super-friendly and very helpful! Recommended! read more

Ortega's On the Plaza - Jewelry Near Me - Santa Fe, New Mexico

I am a longtime customer from Ortega's on the plaza. I've been shopping there for over 30 years and have spent tens of thousands of dollars in the store. I would like to start by saying a little Goodwill goes a long way and a little bit of friendliness makes a difference. Today I had the worst sales girl you can imagine in the store. She had no personality was not friendly was not warm. I feel bad that she had an eye condition, but she could not see she could not even read prices but overall, she was just not nice. In spite of all that because I do love the jewelry there. It is of a good quality and the prices are OK. I bought two pieces to be shipped to my home within the hour. I kind of changed my mind and went back in the pieces had not even left the store. They had not even left the cash register. They were still sitting there on top of a velvet tray. I was told no refunds and shown the store policy. That is not what I am complaining about. I understand there are policies what I am complaining about is the rudeness of the sales girl that I had. She literally turned her back on me and walked away. Did not say anything kind was not in the least bit understanding, and then rudely left mid conversation I will not have my back turned on by anyone after all these years of being a good customer I will never buy another piece of jewelry in that store. I do not recommend this store to anyone ever since my good sales girl Robin left. I miss her so much terrible terrible terrible personalities, and service. read more

Fantastic selection of higher end jewelry - rings, necklaces, charms, etc.. Their inventory also includes vintage items. If you are looking for a piece to keep forever, this is the place to go. read more

Anything you purchase here is only returnable for store credit. I purchased an$1,1000 belt and buckle as a gift for my husband. After sending him pictures we decided to return it. Surprise - only store credit. Could not believe a store this size would be that inflexible. A purchase made the previous day from an out of town visitor. They pointed out that there is a sign at the register and it's written on the bottom of the receipt. I thought maybe they would make an exception since the purchase was the day before and clearly not used and I was not verbally informed of the policy and am from out of town. No way. No exceptions. So BEWARE or preferably shop somewhere else. read more

This is a post to update my very unfavorable review I left last January. Just got back to Ortegas last week with my store credit paper in hand. I told no one I had it as I silently decided on 2 bracelets I wanted. I sought out a sales lady who was nearby and she gladly took my two bracelets out of the cases for me, I tried them on, and decided they had to be mine. As we walked to the cash register area I told her I had store credit. No problem whatsoever! Another gal rang it up and gave me a receipt which shows my remaining balance, wrapped them in little jewelry bags and I was done. I had actually dreaded going into the store worried they'd try to tell me the store credit had expired, but no! It went so well and I never saw any of the other ladies I'd dealt with in December. I will be back as I still have a little store credit, but otherwise, maybe wouldn't. Word to the wise-don't have anything shipped to you and make darned sure you're happy with what you buy because you will not be getting your money back! I thought it was only fair to follow up after posting a real bad review. read more

Great jewelry selection. Beautiful pieces by assorted artists that make high quality jewelry. Prices are moderate to high. Very good service during the Indian Market. I did make a call around a week later for some information about an artist's work. The first woman did not get back to me, but the seconds one did respond quickly. read more

Wonderful shop on the high end of native American jewelry. Wonderful owner and sales associates who give exemplary service!

I've bought many gifts here and just ordered a gift from a phone call. Nice and helpful sales people.

I absolutely LOVE ORTEGA's for special pieces of jewelry that I treasure forever more! The unique pieces of wearable art are often one of a kind. They are beautiful reminders of my stay in Santa Fe, and whenever I have the luxury to return to this town, Ortega's is a must stop to mark the experience! read more

This is one of the best Southwestern silver & turquoise stores in Santa Fe. I have purchased a number of things from them over the years, both new & vintage. This gorgeous store has so many beautiful things that you may want to allocate plenty of time to slowly savor them before you choose what you want to add to your collection. In addition, the very knowledgeable folks who work here are warm and very helpful. Every year when I visit Santa Fe, Ortega's always one of the places I visit. read more

A must-stop-in for anyone searching for beautiful southwestern jewelry. This store carries works by talented artists, some who have been making jewelry for decades. The selection is varied and of high quality, and the sales people are well-informed and friendly. Ortega's on the Plaza is where I began buying nice pieces for myself and loved ones, and I shop there or their online store whenever I can. read more

There are, of course, dozens of places to buy artisan jewelry in Santa Fe, but I found Ortega's to be a great place for the casual shopper, like myself. They have hundreds of pieces, in all styles and every price range. I found a necklace I liked one day and came back in the next day to try it on. The salesperson was able to tell me about the artist who created it, which added to my appreciation for the necklace (which I bought). I would visit there again. read more

Perfect location. Huge selection of jewelry by many different artists. Friendly staff. All the jewelry is placed in display cases by artist. I enjoyed looking at each case and seeing the different styles. The cases are well organized and well lit. It was like a feast for the eyes wandering around the store. The staff were helpful and would pull out anything you wanted to see. You can also try on the jewelry. There are a wide variety of prices to choose from but the items in the cases don't show prices, so you have to ask. There are also cheaper earrings hanging on displays on the counters. I bought a pair of earrings by a local artist. I really liked them and went to wear them the next day and the clasp on one broke. We were still in Santa Fe, so I returned to the store thinking I would have to get a refund. They were able to quickly replace the hoop that the earring was on and also they gave me an extra back-up hoop. I appreciated that they gave me the extra hoop and also said that if I had been back home I could have mailed them the earrings to fix or for a refund. The customer service was good. I will definitely come back here when in Santa Fe. The selection is huge and with my customer service experience, it's a great place albeit expensive. read more

If it's good enough for Ted Turner, isn't it good enough for you? ;^) This jewelry shop, within spitting distance of the Palace of the Governors, has some of the best examples of Native American jewelry you will ever see. The shop keeps bios on all of the artists represented in the cases. In some instances, the artists have separate shops elsewhere in Santa Fe or New Mexico or Colorado. A good way to be turned on to these artists is to peruse this shop and see what you fall in love with. If you make a purchase, it will be wrapped beautifully and included in your package will be the artists biography. Of course there are many beautiful high-end pieces but there are also hundreds of affordable things from Ranger Tip Buckle assemblies to earrings and squash blossom necklaces. Many of the artists represented here are award winning. But there are also some lesser known artists that are worth seeing. This gallery is one of the few in Santa Fe that is not owned by people from outside of the United States. That being said, don't forget to walk the Palace of the Governors. Here you will see many native tribes represented. They use a lottery system every day, and the lucky winners can put down one horse blanket on which they place the goods from their Pueblo or their tribe. There are lots of trinkets here meant for tourists who don't want to spend on anything beyond a small item, but occasionally you will see amazing art works by people who don't deal with shops. It's worth the short walk. For variety and education, a stop in Ortega's is a sure fire way to expand your knowledge of Native and Mexican SW art, and a chance to own a masterpiece. The staff here are not pushy. They are helpful and knowledgeable. If you become a regular, they may offer you a discount. And if you see Ted Turner, or Robert Redford, don't be surprised. Happy shopping! read more

Located right on the plaza, it's hard not to find something to love at Ortega's. The store is quite large and has everything from jewelry to belts. If you're looking to really embrace the Southwestern style you'll see all around Santa Fe, this is the place! read more

Visited and bought a few pieces today.... INCREDIBLE customer service and patience! Would absolutely recommend to anyone looking for a legitimate establishment with knowledgeable salespeople! Margie helped us pick a few pieces within our budget... AWESOME EXPERIENCE read more

This store has some very interesting and different things. Some of them were beautiful and definitely my taste, others, not so much. But that's what's so great about this store. The artists use a lot of traditional materials turquoise, spinney oyster, etc, but with their own unique style. It was cool to see all the different types and styles of jewelry. Be sure to ask for Elmore Lopez as he was very nice and helpful and very very adorable. read more

Visiting Santa Fe- used to live here so have quite a bit of southwestern memorabilia , including Native American jewelry. I went in to browse and also see if I could get information trying to identify the artist who made one of my pieces, for which I had a picture. The older sales lady who met us was very abrupt and rude- wouldn't give me the time of day when she realized I wasn't planning on buying anything. It was very awkward. I then walked across the plaza , and spoke with 2 charming women at Malouf's on the plaza, who gave me lots of information and a website resource to continue my search. Ortega's wasn't busy, so I wasn't taking her time away from other customers. A very disappointing experience. read more

Ortega's can be overwhelming considering their large inventory, but the staff is very helpful in locating just the right treasure for you. My family spent over an hour here the other day and were delighted with our purchases. Even late in the day, the staff was very patient and helped explain the various sources for the stones, and the symbolic meaning behind the artists' work. read more

When visiting Santa Fe New Mexico over the years, I've always enjoyed shopping at "Ortega's On The Plaza'. I have found their service to be helpful and insightful. I definitely give them 5 thumbs up for their courteous, patient service! (I'm one who takes my time in deciding what I like best) As a connoisseur of authentic southwest silver work, I have pieces that I continue to wear and receive complements for~ even 22 years later! The selection of quality silver work is immense, and the hardest part is choosing what i like best. My last two pieces purchased were created by the artist 'Clif Doran'. I just love them! read more

I recently visited Ortega's in Santa Fe, and bought a turquoise squash blossom pendant. When I asked the price of the pendant I was told $250. I decided to buy it. My friend and I were in a rush to catch a bus, so I quickly signed the credit card receipt without looking at the total. To my dismay, when I got home, I saw that they charged me $525 for the necklace, more than DOUBLE the $250 I was quoted verbally. I asked the friend who was with me what price she remembers I was quoted and she agreed that it was $250. I have been trying to reach them on their 800 number and can't get through. I intend to challenge this charge on my card, and hope I can get some satisfaction. My bad yes, for not checking the total on the credit card receipt before signing! But their bad for pulling a fast one! read more

Horrible costumer service! They just want your money and they don't care about their customers. I am traveling and had second thoughts about earrings the next day. The sales girl stated there were no refunds and I could only exchange. It would have been nice if I was told this when I bought it. Yes it is printed on the receipt, but after I buy something I check the price to make sure it matches up... I don't typically read the fine print. If their store policy is going to be that strict then they need to tell customers up front. Anyway I searched and searched for something not horribly overpriced and finally found something, but it was $10 less. Even then the sales girl refused to refund the $10 and she informed me it would be store credit. Great I basically lose out on my $10 unless I want to spend 100+ or more. I would never shop here again. read more

I really dislike writing negative reviews, but I'd really like to help someone else avoid the the trouble we've gone through with this place. While on vacation my mom bought me a beautiful pair of earrings, for $200. I wore them twice. The second time I wore them, I noticed a large stone had fallen out. They were glued into place, which is not the best way to secure a stone. I assumed a simple call to the store, and offer to return the earrings would result in a refund...considering they were not cheap...but I was wrong. Here I am, three ignored phone calls later, with dud earrings, and my mom is out $200. No one even answers the phone!!!! I have left multiple messages!! What kind of business does not return a phone call to a customer who has spent $200 on a faulty product?!? We've advised my mom to contest the charge with her credit card company- which will work b/c she has capital one- and I guarantee they will give her a call when they see that the money has been taken back. As a small business owner myself...I am disgusted that this store would take advantage of my older mother and steal $200 from her...b/c that is what this is...robbery. read more

Buyer beware! They have a NO refund policy and they do not tell you this upfront. They will only give store credit. They will not even give $5 back if you buy something $5 less. Horrible customer service. They "size you up" immediately when you enter and then treat you accordingly. I come to Santa Fe often and have bought things here before, but will never return again. My friend bought earrings and wanted to return them the next day, and they said no. I just will not deal with an establishment like this. read more

They have a fabulous selection of jewelry from some of the top designers in the southwest. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a memorable experience and special piece. read more

Love, love, love Ortega's!! I wanted a silver bracelet and the selection is amazing! As another reviewer mentioned, everything is laid out by designer which makes it very enjoyable to browse. Our salesperson, Anna, was knowledgeable, helpful and incredibly easy to work with. She wasn't in a hurry and allowed us to look at as many options as we wanted. I tend to get a little intimidated in specialty stores, but Anna made the process very simple. If you are in Santa Fe and do not visit Ortega's, you are cheating yourself! I really wish they would get an online catalog for those of us that can only visit a couple times a year! read more

Love to visit this store when in Santa Fe. They carry artist that you cannot find in other stores. Whether I was looking or buying, the staff are always helpful and informative. Find some pieces to be a little pricey. read more

Had a great experience here last night. Beautiful shop with lots of selection. The saleswoman who helped me was amazing l- not pushy at all and helped me find exactly what I was looking for. Came out with an incredibly gorgeous necklace from Ortegas! read more

They took very good care of my grandmother and entertained her for a few hours. ann,the sales clerk made sure that she got just what she wanted. I was very pleased with the service. read more

Extraordinary collection of contemporary jewelry arranged by artist. A leisurely visit here is a worthwhile education for both beginning browsers or experienced collectors. Take your own esthetic pulse in reaction to the array of stone materials to find that very special one piece of jewelry. there is a small but significant case of vintage items. and we were so grateful for the gracious and informative staff----- this is NOT a snooty retailer despite its elegant ambience! thank you, Denise *** read more

If you can try on an Antonio Pineda $5,000 museum quality Mexican silver bracelet, this place must be cool. I love the jewelry here, and it is all investment quality pieces. If it breaks, you might be in luck where the artisan will repair it for FREE! I had 2 bracelets snap and crack, and the repairs are FREE! I just have to pay for shipping, which isn't so bad. Carol from NY told me to come early to get my bracelets repaired during Indian Market, and I did - the store wasn't open, but the storekeeper let me in early and got me quickly on my way. Amazing assortment of baubles, new and old. No website that I could find, so it is a fun treasure hunt of jewels. read more

Living in Santa Fe and the southwest presents so many options on where to buy your Native American jewelry. I choose Ortega's because of their quality and selection and the extensive knowledge the staff has about the jewelry, the different mines, the history. They have taught me a lot about southwestern jewelry. I have actually never seriously shopped anywhere else in Santa Fe for this type of jewelry. The people who work at Ortega's have a passion for what they are selling and I just don't get that feeling from any other store. read more

This store has amazing jewelery and I love when I walk into the shop you see the shine! It's really pretty. I enjoyed walking throughout the shop and looking at the wide variety of different jewelry as of other things. read more

Ortega's On the Plaza - Jewelry Near Me - Santa Fe, New Mexico

This is an amazing place! I was looking for a pair of silver earrings. I was fortunate enough to have Tony help me. He was so patient and really took the time to listen to me and suggest things I would like. I ended up with a beautiful pair of silver earrings that I absolutely love. I actually found 2 pairs and might go back tomorrow to buy the 2nd. read more

On a recent trip to Santa Fe, I stopped by this store on my mother's urging. She loves it and said it was right up my alley. I went in, was immediately sized up and was then followed around with a watchful eye until I left the store. I don't know if it because I am black or because I look young (even though I am over 30) that raised suspicion but I certainly wasn't going to give them any of my money. I bought a GORGEOUS (and not cheap) turquoise ring from another shop a few blocks away... read more

Wonderful experience shopping here. They offer stunning pieces from well-known artists (no overpriced junk like in quite a few other jewelry shops in the plaza area where sales people are very agressive to sell you something... even pieces you say you don't like!). Customer service was truly top. I worked with Denise, who is a class act (and has admirable jewelry style). She took care of everything from helping to choose the right combination of necklaces, to offering an alteration to a bracelet (free of charge), and shipping the items to my home addess. I can't wait to return to this store. read more

Don't worry about sticking to your bottom line since the salespeople have a history of taking advantage of their clients. They wont waiver on their prices even over a mere 2%. read more

I was very impressed with the service and attention I received from Robin on my visit to Ortega's. She explained the different types of turquoise and what to look for when making a purchase. I had done some research on my own before deciding to shop for turquoise, but she greatly expanded upon what little I knew. She was very patient as I browsed the store and waffled between which piece to buy. I am very happy with the vintage bracelet I bought, and I would recommend this store, and specifically Robin. read more