1154 colour illustrations The widespread appeal of Mexican silver jewelry can be attributed to the artistic quality and variety, plus the large production volume of these small treasures. It is both wearable art and the perfect collectible. This book includes examples from three categories of Mexican silver jewelry: 1) top designer pieces -- hallmarked and representing the best technical virtuosity and artistic achievement; 2) popular silver jewelry -- often of considerable artistic merit, often hallmarked, yet by unknown or lesser-known makers; 3) tourist trinkets -- anonymously made and produced in relatively large quantity. All three categories are shown, while the most popular silver jewelry is the main focus of this book. Most examples are shown close up, so the details are clearly shown. Identifying information and value ranges accompany the 1150 color photos. The bibliography, index, illustrated glossary, and illustrated section on hallmarks make this the most complete reference for the widespread field. AUTHOR: Leslie Pina, is happily retired after teaching at college for 30 years.

She has written many other books on fashion and decorative arts. She and her husband live in Mexico and acquirewd some of pieces shown. They took the photographs for this book together, as they always do.