Carmen Beckmann Mexican silver cha-cha Ring

Working out of San Miguel de Allende, Carmen Beckmann is one of the “second generation” (if I may be allowed the term here) designer / silversmiths who contributed to Mexico’s 20th c. Silver Renaissance. In her work, Beckmann is often inspired by ancient Maya and Aztec motifs to which she adds her unique modernist “twist” - quite successfully in my opinion at least. The ring at hand, however, habitually referred to as a “cha cha” ring, I always associate with the roaring epoch of Carmen Miranda. Ebulliently playful, with its twelve oval charms holding semi-translucent green cabs (agate or chrysoprase), this is a musical and daring piece just like that 1940s icon…

Size / Weight: sz 6 US (resizable by a good jeweler); charms cluster approx. 1” by 1 1/4”; 14.5 grams

Hallmarks / Date: maker’s name as shown as well as “STERLING” and “MEXICO”; 1950s-60s

Condition: excellent vintage with eye-catching presence, great color in the stones that are all there, secure in their bezels, great patina, with no damage and no repairs noted

Inv# 15518