Midcentury Taxco Sterling and Azurmalachite Bracelet by Master Silversmith Felipe Martinez, Piedra y Plata (#18-091)

A stunning Taxco midcentury bracelet by master silversmith Felipe Martinez for his shop Piedra y Plata.  Circa 1950.  Handmade from heavy sterling silver, it is set with beautiful azurmalachite stones in which a deep midnight blue color is interspersed with greyish greens.  This wonderful link-style bracelet is a masterpiece of simple but powerful modernist design in which the domed oval stones alternate with opposing crescent elements punctuated by applied silver drops.  The design as a whole is harmonious and reminds one of the phases of the moon, with full rounded forms alternating with crescents.  Felipe Martinez was a noted sculptor earlier in his career, and worked during the 1940’s for Hubert Harmon.  In 1950 he opened his own shop, Piedra y Plata, meaning ‘Stone and Silver,’ and was rightfully considered a peer among the greatest names of Taxco silver.  The tongue closure is in fine working condition and it retains its original safety chain.  In very good vintage condition with minor scratches and light pitting to several of the stones, commensurate with age and use.  Marked: Sterling Taxco, Piedra y Plata, and Martinez, as well as design number 175, and Eagle 3.  A really gorgeous bracelet by a mid-century master silversmith! Circa 1950.  Interior Wrist Circumference: 6 1/2″  1″ H  Weight: 70.2 grams