Vintage Antonio Pineda Sterling Silver & Onyx Collar Necklace

Considered one of the finest Mexican silver craftsmen from the twentieth century, Antonio Pineda began his art at a young age. He studied painting and sculpture as a youth and at age 14 he was apprenticed to Taller de Las Delicias of William Spratling to learn the silversmith craft. Antonio founded his own workshop in 1941 and his talent flourished.

This necklace is a fantastic example of Antonio Pineda's stunning talent. It is a fabulous piece from the 1950's and is comprised of 17 large sized sterling silver links that have a curved, crescent-like shape. Each scalloped link has a solid piece of inlaid onyx set in it that bulges outward with a rounded face. The links are connected to each other by a single silver jump ring to form an absolutely stunning collar necklace that rests beautifully on the neck. The piece clasps at the back with a simple sterling link closure. On the back of one of the links are several markings: "456", "YY" and the Pinada eagle hallmark. Another link is stamped "STERLING", "MEXICO", "970", "SILVER" along with another Pineda hallmark. It has a striking look on and would make a wonderful addition to any Pineda collection!

Measurements: The inside of the necklace measures approximately 15" in length around the neck. When worn, the necklace drops 2.5" long. Each individual link measures 1 7/8" wide, 1/2" tall and has a depth of a little less than 3/8". It would fit nicely on a small to average sized neck.

Condition: The overall condition of the necklace is excellent. There is no apparent damage to the sterling silver setting and the clasp is secure and in good working condition. There is a small amount of surface wear to the onyx stones which isn't noticeable when the necklace is worn.