Taχəmay χaǰis - Translation:
“Cedar Stone”
Cedar Stone Gallery
Naming ceremonies are sacred to Indigenous people across many cultures and nations because this is where one receives their customary name. It is traditionally known that a person’s name tells their unique story, where they draw their strength from, as well as their greater mission and ultimate purpose in this life.
The brand's name, “Cedar Stone Gallery,” is inspired by Co-founder Jillian’s traditional name, "Cedar Stone Woman.” In her Coast Salish ancestral language, it translates to Taχəmay χaǰis saɬtχʷ - “The cedar tree that grows from stone.” This name means that growth is possible in even the most challenging conditions. It is this philosophy of endurance that the brand aims to embody, both in how they live their lives and conduct their business and in creating authentic and durable pieces of art.
Cedar Stone Gallery’s purpose is to create each original piece not only as beautiful decorations or additions to regalia but, most importantly, as individual objects that empower their wearer’s connection to the sacred (sacred meaning not for everyone but special to the individual). The public’s recognition that these pieces are intended to strengthen their connection to the sacred is significant to their creators. Researching authentic artifacts, sourcing appropriate materials, and consciously making one-of-a-kind pieces requires a considerable time commitment and love of the craft. However, every time Jillian and Kevin witness people’s immediate positive reactions to their wearable art, they know their efforts were well worth it.
Sourced with diligence
As an indigenous-owned and operated business, we believe in creating top-quality jewelry, leather goods, and stand-alone artifacts. Cedar Stone Galleries materials are guaranteed to be 100% handmade, ethically sourced, and intended to be handed down to future generations. All products are distinctively designed, one-of-a-kind pieces that are honored and embedded with gratitude from conception to final delivery. Each piece holds a deep connection to its elemental source and is assembled with utmost respect and appreciation for Mother Earth’s bounty in the form of animals, forestry, and minerals. Each piece's meticulous craft and attention to detail are meant to inspire happiness, awe, curiosity, and interconnections.
We wish you all health, happiness, food, and shelter.
The artists
Meet Jillian, Taχəmay χaǰis saɬtχʷ “Cedar Stone Woman”
Jillian grew up in Vancouver, BC and is Coast Salish from the Homalco band on Vancouver Island. True to her name, Jillian has overcome some very challenging health conditions and loss, ultimately reconnecting her to a more traditional way of life. Her experience with adversity has inspired her to rediscover and proudly install pride in her ancestral heritage.
Her expertise is in jewelry making and mineral knowledge. She also holds a diploma in Spa Therapy. She plans to introduce botanical skincare products into the Cedar Stone brand. Jillian’s mission with Cedar Stone is to create a portal that allows users to connect to culture, community, and artistic expression. In addition, she intends to support others to feel adorned by making indigenous art more widely attainable.
Meet Kevin, Puktewji’j “Little Fire”
Kevin comes from New Brunswick and is part L’nu’k. His extensive travels throughout Turtle Island and worldwide have allowed him to learn traditional craftsmanship directly from the source. The importance of adhering to traditional ways and preserving ancient wisdom is at the forefront of his creations, but what we call wisdom today was what the old ones called common sense. Kevin does his best to express his artistic calling by creating everyday cultural items like rattles, fans, and drums. These are the standard tools of most Native cultures used to attune, connect, and guide the self and others in various ceremonies. His wearable art pieces include traditional jewelry, leatherwork, and more, all intended to beautify, inspire and protect the user.
Kevin is gifted with decades of hands-on experience in the design and creation of Native art, including mineral carving, silversmithing, leatherwork, and original ceremonial objects, amongst others. Individuals and communities recognize his jade, labradorite, and pipestone carvings, as well as his unique bone, tooth, and gemstone jewelry creations as unique museum-quality objects made with superior craftsmanship. His mission is to honor his ancestral traditions by keeping Indigenous art alive for the next generations. Recording new stories with new art forms is his goal. In addition, Kevin desires to support himself, his family, friends, and relatives through his unique artistic skills.
