Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990

What is the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990 (IACA) 

The Indian Arts and Crafts Act is a U.S. law that prohibits the misrepresentation of products as “Indian made” if they are not created by members of federally or state-recognized tribes or certified Native artisans.

Key Points:

Only enrolled members of recognized tribes or certified Indian artisans can market their work as “Native American” or by tribal affiliation.

Mislabeling or falsely advertising products as Native-made is a federal offense.

Violators may face fines up to $250,000 and/or 5 years in prison for individuals, and up to $1 million for businesses.

Our Commitment to Authenticity

We source our art and jewelry directly from Native American artists and cooperatives. Every item labeled as “Native American” is:

- Created by a verified tribal member or certified artisan

- Accompanied by documentation of authenticity when available

- Ethically sourced with respect for tribal sovereignty and cultural heritage

If a product is inspired by Native designs but not made by a Native artist, it will be clearly labeled as “Native-inspired” or “Southwestern-style” to avoid confusion.

Why This Matters

The IACA helps preserve Native traditions, supports Indigenous economies, and protects consumers from fraud. By purchasing authentic Native American art, you’re not just buying a beautiful piece—you’re supporting living cultures and real artists.

Learn More

To explore the full details of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, visit the Indian Arts and Crafts Board (U.S. Department of the Interior).