The Two Gray Hills Trading post was founded in 1897. By 1920, the Two Gray Hills trading post had become known for its incredibly fine and beautiful Navajo textiles. The weavers who traded to this trading post preferred using wool from their own sheep in its natural colors. Thus, the early Two Gray blankets/rugs were white, black, and many shades of gray and brown.

This textile is an example of an early Two Gray Hills rug.  A central diamond with classic Navajo stepped edges is linked to geometric designs with a cross center and "hooked" ends, reflecting influence from the Crystal Trading Post.

This design is known as a "storm pattern".* JB Moore at Crystal incorporated this design in his Catalog of 1911 and it proved popular with Anglo buyers. To read more about the storm pattern, go to what Ann Hedlund at the University of Arizona writes:  http://www.statemuseum.arizona.edu/exhibits/navajoweave/contemp/storm_patterns.shtml

The weavers at nearby Two Gray Hills were influenced by the success of the designs being done for the Crystal Trading Post. Plate XXVII in the 1911 JB Moore catalog is quite similar to this rug, although this Two Gray Hills version is much more intricate and finely woven. 

The use of a negative center bordered by Valero stars in a white ground is very unique and beautiful. Valero stars are an influence from the Spanish-Americans of New Mexico.