AP042 Vintage Antonio Pineda 970 silver and natural amethyst quartz bracelet, circa-1953 to 1978
Origin: Taxco, Mexico
Dimensions: approx. 7.63" x .38" at silver x .25" at amethyst x .25" thickness; 42.6 gm
Condition: Excellent
Provenance: Private Collection
Price: $2,700.00

Elegant amethyst cylinders nestle in silver bars flanked by silver wrapped links, a posh interplay of color and texture. Antonio's slender bracelet makes an outsized statement on the wrist. From their first appearance on the mineral market decades ago, outstanding amethysts of rich, deep color have been produced in remote areas of the Mexican state of Veracruz. Prospectors camped in the mines' dangerous and forbidding terrain dig by candlelight until their oxygen is nearly exhausted, using primitive tools to bring up quantities of rich purple gems that lie hidden in pockets near the surface. Like the Aztecs who prized amethyst jewelry, Antonio loved the stone's regal contrast with silver and incorporated it into many designs. This bold but simple piece displays the master's genius with color and texture, making an impeccable piece of powerful presence.