Taxco Sterling Silver Oval Pendant by Artisan TC-215
Jewelry (Pendant) · Unidentified Taxco Artisan matching registrant 'TC-215'. Taxco, Mexico is world-renowned for its silver industry, revitalized by William Spratling in the 1930s. The 'TC' indicates the artisan's last name starts with C and they are registered in Taxco.
Pattern: Modernist Taxco Silver, production registered under number 215
Type
Jewelry (Pendant)
Maker
Unidentified Taxco Artisan matching registrant 'TC-215'. Taxco, Mexico is world-renowned for its silver industry, revitalized by William Spratling in the 1930s. The 'TC' indicates the artisan's last name starts with C and they are registered in Taxco.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid silver throughout with no evidence of nickel or base metals, typical of mid-to-late 20th-century Mexican jewelry standards.
Dimensions
Standard oval pendant size, approximately 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm; estimated weight 8-12 grams based on typical gauge for Mexican hollowware jewelry.
Description
A classic example of late 20th-century Taxco craftsmanship, this oval sterling silver pendant features a clean, legible set of hallmarks on a softly curved backplate. The piece represents the industrial evolution of Taxco jewelry, where individual artisans were registered under a systematic oversight code while maintaining traditional material purity.
Key Features
The 'TC-215' registration code is the diagnostic feature, identifying it as a verified Taxco production. Its oval geometry and heavy 925 content are hallmarks of the region's modernist output.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid silver throughout with no evidence of nickel or base metals, typical of mid-to-late 20th-century Mexican jewelry standards.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized matte finish on the reverse; likely features a polished or gemstone-inlaid obverse. The surface shows natural patina and light scratching consistent with age. This style is often associated with the Brutalist or Modernist movements in Mexican silver design.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'TC-215' (Letter T for Taxco, C for the maker's surname initial, 215 for the registration order). 'MEXICO' and '925' purity mark. This marking system was introduced in Mexico around 1979-1980 to replace the earlier eagle assay mark.
Construction Details
Likely die-struck or cast plate with a soldered bail or bezel. The backplate shows a slightly domed formation, suggesting it may be the backing for an inlay or a cabochon stone on the front.
Functional Features
Closed back design intended to protect a front-facing decorative element; provides a smooth surface for comfort against the wearer's skin.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Jewelry item). The bail (partially visible at bottom/top) would be a soldered silver loop or ring.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial artisan quality. The marks are well-struck, and the edges are rounded smoothly, indicating professional finishing despite being a production-line piece.
Authentication Indicators
The alphanumeric 'TC-215' stamp is consistent in font and depth with authentic Mexican government-mandated registration stamps. The natural oxidation patterns are consistent with .925 silver age.
Origin & Manufacturing
Taxco de Alarcón, Guerrero, Mexico. Taxco is the historic center of Mexico's silver trade, known for combining indigenous motifs with European technical skill.
Era & Period
Modernist Era (Post-1979). The hallmark style specifically places this in the late 20th century, following the shift from numeric 'eagle' marks to the letter-number system.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-1995. The 'TC-215' mark is the primary dating evidence, signaling manufacture after the 1979 hallmark law change.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Second Renaissance' of Mexican silver, where the industry transitioned from small artist workshops to a standardized export powerhouse that still dominates the luxury jewelry market today.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Shows moderate surface tarnish (sulfide deposits) and minor abrasions. No deep gouges or structural failures. Purity marks remain crisp and legible.
Value Estimate
$35.00 - $65.00 (USD). Value depends largely on the decoration/stone on the reverse side not shown in the image and current silver spot prices.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and a mild silver cream like Wright's. Avoid chemical dips which can strip the intentional oxidation from the crevices. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent further tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Works by makers such as 'TM-150' or 'TP-50'. Alternatives include vintage 'Eagle 3' marked pieces which are older (pre-1979) and typically command a higher collector premium.
Interesting Facts
The letter 'T' in the mark stands for Taxco, while the second letter 'C' is the first letter of the maker's last name. The number '215' means they were the 215th person with a 'C' surname to register in that city.
Notes
TC - 215 Mexico 925 pendant