The stunning red color of the matrixed stones has been identified as dyed magnesite by two sources and dyed “pale” turquoise by another. Regardless, the stones are uniquely colored and make for an eye catching presentation. The 18 sections, each connected with perfectly operational hinges, measure 7/8” by 3/8” and are an impressive .25” thick. Hallmarked 950, Mexico, TS-22 (an assigned Taxco artisan number) on a sturdy, secure clasp. The necklace measures 16” around and weighs a whopping 92 grams (3 ounces). This unusual large Taxco piece is in fantastic condition with even age patina on the silver—the 950 silver is a higher grade than sterling and was often used by Taxco artisans when a substantial piece was being created, ca. 1950. There are a couple of tiny places where the dye didn’t quite take on the stones and I’ve included an image of the worst example, which is 100 times worse than any other—the four “pink” spots are about the size of a pin head and due to the outrageous color of the stones, they are not visible unless closely scrutinized–stone dying was in it’s infancy. This is a highly collectable piece as it’s design, superior construction, outrageous stones and it’s shear weight make it a truly unique Taxco creation.
