Biography Mike Vatalaro started working cattle when he was 15. Earning the nickname Tapadero or Tap, he moved to Wyoming to attend college and work on some of the big cow outfits. For 26 years Tap buckaroo'd, working on some of the great legendary ranches like the Padlock and the MC. Those inevitable wrecks began catching up with him, so in the early 1990s Tap attended The Miller Bit And Spur School. This new pursuit allowed him to stay close to an industry and lifestyle that he not only loves but that is so engrained in him that it is simply who and what he is. Tap's background as a working buckaroo also brings to his work knowledge earned the hard way, in the saddle. He knows what works for a horse and what doesn't, kind of been there done that. Strongly inspired by the traditions of the Californios, Tap's designs reflect this heritage. Over the years his mentor, master engraver Manny Gonzales, has honed Tap's engraving skills so that his silver sparkles with a sheen seldom seen in other work. Peggy Vatalaro, Tap's wife helps him design all the jewelry they create. Like everything that Tap makes only the finest raw materials are used creating these unique and one of a kind western jewelry pieces. We would like to express our thanks to a couple of others for their support. Dave & Nichole Ferry of Horsewright Clothing And Tack Co. and Carlos & Heather Macias of LostBuckaroo.com. All are good friends and have been very supportive of Tap's work and business.