Martinez Piedra y Plata Mexican silver mask Ring

Carved in translucent amethyst the “mask” adorning the Piedra y Plata silver ring presented here bespeaks Felipe Martinez’s talent as a sculptor. His pieces, always combining sterling with the most amazing stones, showcases some of the best lapidary work in the world of vintage Mexican jewelry and his “masks”, I consider some of the most evocative, spiritual examples in the field. And even though Martinez’s creations are usually rooted in Mexico’s rich archeological past, he is unfailingly successful in re-interpreting ancient motifs in a modernist way…

Size / Weight: sz 4.75-5 US (re-sizable); face is 7/8” N-S and approx. 3/4” E-W; 8.9 grams

Hallmarks / Date: fully marked with maker’s and taller’s name as shown as well as “STERLING TAXCO”, des. no 215 and bearing Eagle 3 assay mark; 1950s-60s

Condition: excellent vintage with a perfectly carved “mask”, a richly colored, glistening stone, with the patina you want to see on a piece well-loved and cared-for, with no damage and no repairs noted

Inv.# 15515