early Mexican Deco silver and amethyst pectoral Necklace

In a rarely seen design, this Mexican Deco necklace wrought in silver and adorned with a big amethyst cab has all the bells and whistles of early Taxco craftsmanship. Bold and confidently executed, the repoussage is enhanced with purposefully applied oxidation and the motifs used betray Spanish Colonial influences. The form, however, a striking pectoral, points in the direction of ancient Meso-american adornments thus presaging the “archeological” turn Taxco jewelry design will take in the first period of the country’s 20th c Silver Renaissance. And even though it is completely unmarked, its style and craftsmanship do not leave any doubt about its origins…

Size / Weight: 18 1/2” long (easily lengthened with a simple extension); pectoral is 4 1/4” wide and adds a 2 1/2” drop to the chain; chain is just shy of 3/4” wide; 80.6 grams

Hallmarks / Date: not signed for maker nor hallmarked for metal content yet tested and guaranteed to be solid silver, most probably sterling if not higher; 1930s

Condition: excellent vintage with stunning presence, exhibiting craftsmanship of a very high level, with gorgeous patina and a beautiful stone, no damage and no repairs noted

Inv# 14147