Carmen Beckmann Mexican silver amethyst “daggers” Necklace

One of the few female designers and silversmiths who contributed to Mexico’s 20th c. Silver Renaissance that we know about, Carmen Beckmann is reported in the literature to have worked primarily in the 1950s and 1960s in San Miguel de Allende. I am not sure if this is indeed the case, at least in terms of the dates when she was active and I only say this because many of the pieces by her that I have seen bore hallmarks that would indicate a pre-1948 date of crafting. This might be one of the field’s many questions – hopefully further research will afford us some more concrete answers. The necklace I am presenting here, however, is a creation of the 1950s-60s as its Eagle assay mark proves. Rather rare and one of her most impressive designs, it is comprised of an unexpected combination: silver overlay links with deeply chased details and beading alternate with carved amethyst “daggers”, their serrated edges naked for everybody to see. Femininity and assertiveness resting next to each other around the neck…

Size/Weight: 16 1/4″ long (16″ wearable, becomes a little roomier when clasped yet can easily be lengthened with a simple extension); figural links part is 10″ long by 1 1/2″ wide; 74.9 grams

Hallmarks / Date: signed with maker’s name as shows as well as “STERLING MEXICO” alongside Eagle 1 assay mark; 1950s-60s

Condition: excellent vintage with very good workmanship, a stunning design, beautiful overlay and patina and no chips or breaks to the amethyst “daggers”; no damage and no repairs noted

Inv.#14361