I am always intrigued by the male species of the craft world. They usually have a very interesting and different perspective when it comes to design. Choctaw's designs have quite a range from simple to intricate and Native American to modern. He has some wonderful creations and interesting influences. My most favorite it the armadilla ring, entitled Armando Armadillo.

Here's his interview (R.J.'s, that is, not Armando Armadillo):

I'm from the ghetto,homie. I was raised on bread & baloney. Never mind. I thought I was at open mike night at Rick's Flat Cat Bar & Grill.

I'm R.J. of www.choctaw.etsy.com and I'm addicted to silversmithing. It started out simply enough. I had just bought the single best men's sterling silver ring on earth at the time. It cost $175.00 back in the day. It was made of opal ,coral and turquoise. It had so much intricate work in it that it still amazes me.
I returned to purchase a sterling buckle and bracelet when it dawned on me that I could teach myself smithing if I bought the tools instead.



I began making gifts for Indian friends for birthdays. In months, orders began pouring in. I began doing shows and then opened a shop in a steel building because I am allergic to brick & mortar.

I kind of do my own thing. I don't feel limited to making only native american style jewelry just because I am one.

I am very deeply influenced by my dreams at night. I see all kinds of images and sketch them upon awakening. I am also influenced by late 1800's Choctaw jewelry seldom seen outside of local homes or museums.


Nature itself teaches me great lessons in design as well as in living.I am surrounded by wildlife as I live on 2 acres in the woods.
My philosophy is to try to create something beautiful everyday.
That makes me very happy.
A few tips to others might be to strive to be your very best at your craft. I am self-taught but you don't have to be. Use only the best materials available. Make things that will last. Pour your heart into it.
I still take custom orders,especially for rings. It thrills me to hear how happy someone is to wear it.

R.J. is also a comic. He's performing on Etsy 24/7 and he'll be on my blog all week!