Indian crafts — fake or genuine?

Here’s a good idea: The New Mexico Legislature is considering a certification stamp for arts and crafts made by American Indians in New Mexico, according to an AP story. A similar setup exists in Alaska.

The stamp, it is hoped, would create a stronger market for the real stuff and devalue the fakes coming from Mexico or the Far East.

Indian craft stores dot Route 66 from Oklahoma to Arizona, especially in Gallup, Santa Fe and the Arizona-New Mexico border. A little more consumer information about these items is a good thing, in my opinion.