Byron K. McCurtain is a direct descendant of Old Man Lone Wolf of the Kiowa Tribe. In his early years, Byron spent summers with his grandfather by Sugar Creek, near Rainy Mountain southeast of Gotebo, Oklahoma. His grandfather talked about and showed him the Kiowa way to hunt, track, and fish. Byron’s grandfather also made a lasting impression on Byron with his good humor and his urging him to never be afraid. Byron’s artistic talent was publicly recognized when he was only 15 years old in Junior High School with his pen & ink drawings. Years later while working at the Dallas Intertribal Center, he was encouraged to attend the Institute of American Indian Art, in Santa Fe. Thus, in 1979, Byron embarked on a new life and entered the Institute of American Indian Art in Santa Fe. Now with over 30 years of experience his jewelry speaks a language all of its own. Byron’s master lapidary skills are complemented by his eye for design and outstanding silversmith skills. Byron builds impeccable sterling silver mounts and bezels that hold and frame the cut stones.