Mexican Mixed Metal Belt Buckle from an unknown artist. Sterling silver, copper, and bronze. Buckle measures 6 1/2 x 2 3/4.

The craft of Mexican silver jewelry was revived in the 1920s and 1930s through the efforts of two Americans fascinated by the arts of Mexico. Fred Davis in Mexico City worked with local silversmiths to produce designs that reflected Mexico’s ancient Indian heritage. William Spratling, an American architect who had moved to Taxco, established a workshop and trained over 100 Mexican silversmiths. The growing number of tourists were attracted to the unique styles of Mexican jewelry, featuring a primitive look harking back to Aztec influences along with a striking, bold effect with the use of green, black and turquoise stones.

$225