About Us

Salt Grass Jewelry is a reminder of our devotion to nature. Our purpose is to create timeless jewelry that feels both modern and of the earth.

Founded in 2016 by metal artist Kristi Frank Montaño, Salt Grass Jewelry is a celebration of sculptural abstraction, storytelling, and craftsmanship. Before launching her brand, Kristi honed her skills by producing jewelry for notable designers in New York City and Maine. Born and raised in Northern New Mexico, her work is often distinguished by symbolic shapes and textures inspired by the high desert. She is known for her intuitive connection with gems and minerals and for creating distinctive one-of-a-kind bridal pieces.

The name Salt Grass comes from Distichlis spicata, a species of grass also known as desert saltgrass. Desert saltgrass can be found throughout the Americas, and locally it thrives along the clay riverbanks of the Rio Grande.

SLOW-MADE PRACTICES

Salt Grass jewelry embraces a slow-made ethos, prioritizing quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail over the unethical production of fast fashion and cookie-cutter designs that flood the industry. We thoughtfully crate with a commitment to sustainability. Each Salt Grass piece can be handed down for generations with minimal waste and minimal carbon footprint.

HONORING INDIGENOUS LANDS 

Creating on stolen Tewa land in Oga’Pogeh Owingeh, meaning 'white shell water place,' also known as Santa Fe. The Tewa people are a group of Pueblo tribes who have historically lived along the Rio Grande. Before them, the ancient Puebloans stewarded this land. We recognize the ongoing fight for Indigenous sovereignty and commit to reparative action, striving to be good ancestors in all that we do.

Care Guide

Our jewelry is carefully handmade with fine materials. Like any art, care must be taken to ensure its longevity. Here are two tips that will make a huge impact:

1) Remove your jewelry before any activity that exposes the metal to moisture or physical damage. Think gardening, hot tubs, hot springs, or intense physical activities.

2) Store your jewelry in a dry place. The bathroom is the worst place for this.

Your bedroom is a safer bet, and a jewelry bag or even a zip-lock with an anti-tarnish strip would also work great. For more care info see our FAQ page.

SOLID GOLD

Resistant to water, sweat and any other element.

To clean, use a polishing cloth, or soak in lukewarm water with a few drops of mild soap. Use your fingers or a soft cloth to rub off any dirt and dry thoroughly. Keep in a dry place.

STERLING SILVER

Exposure to air and moisture may cause sterling silver to tarnish more rapidly. The textures and forms on our jewelry will become more defined with this natural patina, but if you wish to return the jewelry to its original finish, please use a gentle jewelry polishing cloth.

To clean and remove oxidization, use a polishing cloth. We like Sunshine Clothes which you can find on Amazon. Follow directions carefully when using them and only rub lightly. Keep in a dry place.

14K GOLD VERMEIL

The plaiting durability will depend on the wearer's usage and body sweat. Some bodies are more prone to sweat than others and may fade faster. For best results, do not expose your jewelry directly when exercising, showering, washing your hands, gardening, or anything with chemicals and/or abrasive material.

To clean, gently rub and polish with a soft cloth or microfiber cloth. Do not use a polishing cloth. Keep in a dry place. Reach out if you need your jewelry to be re-dipped.

Site Credits

Site design and development by Here Beyond Studio. Photography by Meredith Brockington.