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Wednesday, January 2, 2013

History of Mexican Sterling Silver Jewelry

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Jewelry enthusiasts will definitely have Mexican sterling silver jewelry in their collection. Mexican silver is a secret among jewelry experts, but silver jewelry is quickly gaining interest due to the rich history and high quality of craftsmanship.
Sterling silver was fashioned in Taxco, Mexico and the creation of Mexican silver can be credited to Cortex in the early 17th century. In the Taxco area of Mexico the conquistador placed his claim of silver and began developing silver mines. Silver was mined, refined, purchased and used to make fine jewelry and ornaments. By the 17th century, Taxco sterling silver was sent to Spain, England, Germany and France. However, by the 18th century the silver mining industries of Taxco faded into obscurity.
Don Jose De La Borda brought Taxco's rich silver heritage back into popularity. De La Borda discovered a vein of silver in the local rocks, and his silver mine made him very wealthy. To show his gratitude De La Borda funded homes, schools, and Santa Prisca Cathedral. This giving fostered the tradition of giving back to Taxco by utilizing the Mexican sterling silver industry is still being carried on.
In 1920 college professor William Spratling, arrived in Taxco to find his fortune. He began encouraged local workers to develop silversmithing talents. As a result of Spratling’s dream, Taxco gained and still holds a worldwide reputation for having the most visually spectacular and high quality silver jewelry. In the world of Mexican sterling silver, jewelry designers like Chino Ruiz and Castillos are still viewed with respect for their silver craftsmanship. The demand for Castillos silver jewelry designs along with other Taxco designers is very high. Geseell@avilasterling.com

2 comments:

  1. I have three Taxco rings, by the markings they are from the 1920's to the 1950's. I am interested in the history of these rings and am curious to know if you can lend a hand.

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