There is no one more knowledgeable in Native American art than Bill Malone. He is personal friends with many of the top Native American artists of the area and southwest. While everyone else in the Gallup area pass themselves as Indian traders, Bill has remained true to his profession as trader and has established trust with all who do business with him. Many of us are so grateful he and his wife, Minnie have not faded from the Native American art scene after their time at Hubbell's Trading Post in Ganado, Arizona. We certainly do wish them and their family must success with their business in Gallup.
Bill Malone, himself will help you with anything sold in his Gallup Trading Post. His experience with Navajo weavings and their history is unparalleled. This is not a place to buy inexpensive souvenirs and t-shirts but to acquire Navajo art at extremely fair prices…both for you and the Navajos who created the art. Equity for the Navajo artist, honesty and the humbleness of Mr. Malone are reasons why making a stop at Malone's will be an educational experience. Bill's shop is not ritzy and sometimes the stock is limited…but what is there at any one time is really good. By the way there are some small, inexpensive items too, they are simply not from China like so many other shops.
Highly touted but rather disappointing. Very nice stuff but extremely expensive. Probably worth the price but not for most people.
Over the last year and a half I have been to two other trading posts in Gallup. Both have an extensive rug and jewelry collection and I like what I have purchased; but Bill Malone Trading Post is the best of the three. The collection is smaller but what he has is lovely. The selling point is Bill, himself. He has years of experience in trading Navajo rugs, deep knowledge on the subject, and is calm and relaxed. He let's you look and isn't pushing rugs at you. This is a definite must shop here. Will be back.
Since my family is very close to the owner. BIll Malone is married out in Ganado Az Area, him and his wife own the place. They always have amazing jewelry in stock, and the prices are always reasonable :)
Interesting selection of Indian art, especially woven goods, also some very nice Kachina dolls. I purchase a beautiful carved walking stick that the Trading Company mailed to Atlanta since it was too big to fly with us on the plane. They know their business and will work with you any way that they can.
Bill Malone was for years the principle Trader at Hubbell Trading Post. He is experienced and honest. His jewelry, rugs etc are first rate and priced well. he will always give a good si=discount on the listed price. He also stands by what he sells.I have two bracelets that I bought at Shush Yaz from Bill when he worked there...and has has fixed them when a few of the small tourquoise fell out ...at no charge...even though he did not sell them to me from his own business.I always recommend folks from out of town to go to Bill's and not have to worry about the quality of what thye are buying. And stories? He has got stories!
We checked out the Bill Malone Trading Company after reading the reviews on Trip Advisor. From the moment we walked into the store we knew we were in good hands. Mr. Malone was there and it is clear he knows his business very, very well. He cares about his customers and wants to help them find something special. He is fair and honest and a pleasure to do business with. We had the honor of meeting his daugther and felt like old friends by the time we left. If you do one thing in Gallup, find your way to the Bill Malone Trading Company!
We visited Mr. Malone's store this week. He is a very nice, gentle, knowledgeable man. His rug prices were very reasonable compared to other stores in the area. The rug we bought is beautiful and of high quality. We were honored to meet Mr. Malone, a legend in Native American trading. If you are in the area, a visit to this store is a must!
Bill Malone is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Navajo rugs. I am sure that whatever price you pay in his store is less than what you would pay in another legit trading post, and you will come away with a lot more information than if you just bought it from one of the other stores. Bill is also knowledgeable on other Native American items, as well, whether it's jewelry, kachinas, pottery, etc. As with anything, if you are comfortable with the price, then it was a good deal. When buying quality Native American arts & crafts, don't doubt yourself after the purchase. Take it home and enjoy it for years to come.