Mixed-Stone Sterling Silver Drop Pendant on Torque Choker
Jewelry (Necklace/Choker with Pendant) · Unknown artisan silversmith; characteristic of Southwestern or Mexican workshop production. No specific brand identified without hallmark visibility.
Pattern: Three-stone articulated drop; custom handcrafted artisan style.
Type
Jewelry (Necklace/Choker with Pendant)
Maker
Unknown artisan silversmith; characteristic of Southwestern or Mexican workshop production. No specific brand identified without hallmark visibility.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) alloy with natural stone or glass cabochons (possibly fossilized coral, agate, or quartz). Metal appears silver-toned with natural oxidation.
Dimensions
Choker diameter: approx. 5-6 inches (13-15cm). Pendant drop: approx. 3.5 inches (9cm). Estimated weight: 45-60 grams.
Description
An impactful artisan necklace featuring a rigid silver torque collar paired with a graduated three-stone pendant. The stones exhibit natural earth tones, suggesting fossilized or semi-precious materials. The blackened silver crevices enhance the design's depth, creating a bold, wearable piece of art.
Key Features
Articulated graduated pendant; multi-stone composition; decorative filigree bail; rigid tarnish-resistant torque band.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) alloy with natural stone or glass cabochons (possibly fossilized coral, agate, or quartz). Metal appears silver-toned with natural oxidation.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized/Antiqued finish. The pendant features decorative openwork/filigree on the bail and bezel settings with textured or polished backing. Tribal/Bohemian influence.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; typically found on the reverse of the largest pendant tier or on the choker terminals. Expected marks: '925', 'Mexico', or maker's initials.
Construction Details
Fabricated jewelry. Features an articulated three-tier drop linked by jump rings or hinges. Torque collar is likely forged for spring tension. Hand-set cabochons in bezel mounts.
Functional Features
Hinged bail allows the pendant to slide or be removed; tension-set torque collar for neck wear; articulated segments for movement during wear.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A
Craftsmanship Details
Symmetric assembly with hand-soldered bezels. bail exhibits cast filigree elements. Pendant shows higher labor intensity than the machine-drawn collar.
Authentication Indicators
Solder joins and bezel seating are consistent with mid-market artisan production. Patina depth suggests authentic silver rather than silver-tone base metal.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Mexico (Taxco region) or Southwestern United States. Follows traditional silversmithing techniques of these regions.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary (late 20th Century, approx. 1970s-1990s). Stylistic indicators: Revival of Brutalist and ethnic-chic aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2000 based on the torque collar style and bail design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the fusion of traditional Mexican/Navajo jewelry techniques with modern minimalist collar designs.
Condition Notes
Good condition. Evidence of tarnish in protected areas (common for silver jewelry). No visible chips to stones. Metal surface shows minor abrasions from wear.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD depending on hallmark verification and specific stone identification.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver cloth. Avoid chemical dips which can damage semi-porous stones like coral or agate. Store flat to prevent torque deforming.
Similar Pieces
Taxco Mexican Silver stone pendants; David Sigal or Carolyn Pollack designs (usually marked); Modernist 'Scandi' silver collars.
Interesting Facts
Torque necklaces (or torcs) date back to the Bronze Age but saw a massive resurgence in the late 20th century as part of the 'Bohemian' fashion movement.