Mexican silver and color-change sapphire Aztec Sun Pendant Necklace

Pendant necklaces are a favorite of mine - I love their versatility and the fact that I can layer them whichever way I want. Thankfully, there is a fabulous selection within the world of vintage Mexican silver jewelry to choose from but I feel particularly lucky to have come upon an example of a classic Taxco design that is, however, smaller in scale than pendants of this design usually in. Set with a color-change sapphire (often, and mistakenly, referred to as “alexandrite”) the “Aztec Sun” pendant is beautifully crafted with overlay, oxidation, hand-chasing and beading. The chain it is accompanied by matches it perfectly in proportions. Even though not hallmarked for provenance, I suspect that it is a Mexican piece as well with a replaced clasp most probably…

Size / Weight: pendant is 1 15/16” in diameter (without the bail); with the bail it adds a 2 1/2” drop to the chain; chain itself is 31 3/8” long; 44.0 grams (for the set)

Hallmarks / Date: maker’s initials “NF” on the pendant along with “TAXCO MEXICO” and Eagle 12 (I think?) assay mark on the bail; chain is not marked (please, see comment above) yet tested and guaranteed to be of sterling quality; 1950s-70s

Condition: excellent vintage with great patina, a gorgeous gem that changes color according to the light, the original oxidation in perfect shape, very easy to wear whatever the occasion, with no damage and no repairs noted

Inv# 15306