Platero, the first Native American jeweler to win the award, will receive a $7,500 cash grant, $1,000 in jewelry supplies, a trip to Prescott, Arizona, a detailed feedback report from the judging committee, and a signature trophy.
He was also a finalist for the 2025 Halstead Grant.
The grant, in its 21st year, is an annual award for emerging silver jewelry artists. To be considered, applicants must submit business details including marketing, competitive analysis, finances, and production capacity.
The experience is designed to help jewelry entrepreneurs create a strategy to kick-start their careers.
Based in Utah, Platero primarily uses sterling silver and turquoise to create jewelry that blends traditional and contemporary Navajo silversmithing.
He is an alum of the University of New Mexico and the University of Utah Center for Lifelong Learning.
Platero discovered jewelry making through searching for a creative outlet, and his hobby quickly turned into a business, the grant program said.
His goal is to make jewelry that lasts, feels grounded, and lets the wearer bring their own meaning to it.
He creates every piece by hand with a focus on structure, symmetry, and balance.
His pieces typically range from $500-$1,500, with options for larger statement pieces.
The artist also exhibits in a variety of shows and teaches workshops throughout the southwest region.
“Over 21 years of awarding grants, we have recognized a broad range of silversmithing styles. This is our first award to a traditional Native American jewelry artist. We are proud to honor Enoch Michael’s accomplishments and enormous potential,” said Halstead Grant founder and Halstead President Hilary Halstead Scott.
Platero commented, “This grant marks an important step for Enoch Michael, validating the discipline behind the business and the standards guiding the jewelry. I am grateful for Halstead’s recognition and for the confidence they have placed in its future.”
The Halstead Grant also awarded finalist prizes of $1,000 cash and $250 in jewelry supplies to Abigail Leaventon Jewelry, Cassidy Kaufman Jewelry, and Solaris Forge.
The 2027 Halstead Grant application is now available online.