History of silver within Mexican jewelry

Joyeria de plata Mexicana

Silver jewelry is the artistic form that has been present in Mexico for many years. Over time, they have become a very symbolic cultural manifestation throughout our country. In our Blog, we can see how silver jewelry in Mexico has been transformed from Mesoamerican cultures to today.


History of silver jewelry in Mexico:

Silver jewelry in Mexico takes its roots from pre-Hispanic times. The Aztecs and other native populations created jewelry using gold and silver as the main elements. Although, after the arrival of the Spanish, the art of silver jewelry began to grow exponentially. This emerged in the 18th century, thus giving more detail to silver jewelry due to the acquired techniques.


During the Spanish conquest, European Union jewelry techniques were mixed with traditional American techniques to create a unique style of silver jewelry. During this period, some of the most relevant pieces of silver jewelry in Mexico were created, such as jewelry used for decoration.


In the 1800s, the Mexican Revolution made a big difference in the silver industry. Most artists and craftsmen were excommunicated from the region or died during the conflict. On the other hand, silver jewelry did not become extinct and, as a result, it became a success in the 20th century thanks to the implementation of Mexican tourism. The artists and craftsmen of the time molded incredible pieces with high quality details, through ancestral techniques.


Development:


During the 1900s, silver jewelry in Mexico underwent a radical change. The artists and craftsmen of the 20th century were able to make highly detailed jewelry that manifested the popular art of Mexicans and the methods of traditional jewelry. 10 years later, artisans and artists from Mexico were called for their work in the exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art in New York.


In the 1960s, silver jewelry in Mexico became even more popular thanks to countercultural movements in the Americans and Europe. At that time, artisans and artists began to produce pieces adding elements that had not been seen such as stones, gems, and also more abstract and modern designs.


Since then, silver jewelry in Mexico has become an art form highly valued worldwide. It is in particular very famous among collectors and fashion lovers who want something especially unique and exceptional.


Frequent questions:

  • Why is Mexican silver jewelry so valued around the world? A: Mexican silver jewelry is highly valued around the world because it combines traditional techniques with modern and unique designs. Additionally, the silver used in the jewelry is of high quality.
  • How can I tell if a piece of Mexican silver jewelry is authentic? A: Authentic Mexican silver jewelry pieces often have a mark or hallmark that indicates the quality of the silver and the place where it was produced. They may also include the signature of the artisan who created the piece.
  • Where can I find authentic pieces of Mexican silver jewelry? A: Authentic pieces of Mexican silver jewelry can be found at specialty jewelry and craft stores, as well as at art fairs and exhibitions.



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