Chet Vogt opens up about taking Vogt Silversmiths from an idea for a small business in the 1960s to the leading voice in Western silversmithing.
For Chet Vogt, the West is more than a place — it’s a way of life. Growing up on a working ranch, he once thought he’d leave it all behind when he went off to college, determined to put horses and cattle in the rearview. But it didn’t take long for him to realize how special the people and the lifestyle truly were. Eventually, he found his way back, embracing the very traditions he once thought he’d outgrow.
The story of Vogt Silversmiths began in the late 1960s when Chet’s parents took a trip to Mexico. There, they discovered a small village where artisans were still crafting bits and spurs using centuries-old silversmithing techniques, a tradition dating back to the early 1500s when Spanish conquistadors brought their skills to the region. This discovery sparked an idea — one that would preserve the heritage of silversmithing while introducing it to a new audience.
Keeping The Craft Alive
Vogt Silversmiths began as a small business selling handcrafted bits and spurs, but Chet and his family soon realized the market was limited. They expanded into horse adornments before pivoting once again — this time, taking their intricate silverwork and applying it to personal adornments. By 1970, Vogt Silversmiths had introduced a line of jewelry and belt buckles, launching their first catalog in 1971. Over time, they transitioned fully into personal silverwork, eventually selling the bits and spurs side of the business to Chet’s brother.
Today, Vogt Silversmiths remains a leader in Western silversmithing, known for quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. Each piece is individually made using old-world techniques, ensuring no two are exactly alike. “Every piece is like a fingerprint.” While competitors may try to follow their lead, Chet remains confident in Vogt’s place at the forefront of the industry. As he says, “They copied all they could follow, but they couldn’t follow my mind. We left them digging and scratching a year and a half behind.”
The Spirit Of The West Lives On
Some say the spirit of the West is fading, but Chet disagrees. As long as there are people who love the land, the animals, and the lifestyle, the West will endure. Vogt Silversmiths is a testament to that spirit, preserving the artistry of Mexican silversmithing while honoring the traditions of the American West.
Experience the legacy of Vogt Silversmiths for yourself — where craftsmanship meets heritage and every piece tells a story.
Visit vogtsilversmiths.com to shop.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Molly Virginia Humphry
