AP044 Vintage Antonio Pineda sterling silver and natural amethyst quartz “Bars” necklace, circa-1953 to 1978
Origin: Taxco, Mexico
Dimensions: 13.75" x .63"; 105.9 gm
Condition: Excellent – strung on original chains.
Provenance: Private Collection
Price: $2,900.00

The grande dame of amethyst statement pieces, with a design that looks as if it were snatched from the neck of a pre-Columbian idol. Antonio's luxe collar alternates heavy satiny silver bars with huge beveled-end gemstones, smooth cut, high, thick and curved to meet antique silver bezels. A heavy, posh piece strung on its original double chains, this collar contours beautifully along the base of the neck. The weight comforts and satisfies like a friend's embrace … the Huntress was loath to remove it – even more so, when she caught a glimpse of those radiant bars gleaming along the collarbone like rays of an Aztec moon. Fascinating interplay of light along those matte silver surfaces, with the counterpoint of the stones' purple pooled depths and beveled ends! A rare and magnificent work by one of Taxco's most coveted and collectible masters, this piece is a crown jewel for serious collectors.