This is a vintage filigree ring from Mexico. It’s done in the Art Nouveau style that was popular in the region from the late 19th century into the present. The Art Nouveau movement was a response to the classical styles (greco-roman looking buildings) that became popular during the age of enlightenment. It eventually made its way across the Atlantic where it became all the rage in Mexico when the Palacio de Bellas Artes was built in that style.

Mexican silversmiths and other artists around the world took to the style. It essentially represents symbols of nature — vines, fruit, leaves, etc. The style makes extensive use of filigree work to accomplish its mission of honoring the natural. You’ll find this look in a lot of Mexican jewelry from about the 1930s on. You’ll see elements of it in William Spratling’s work, but definitely in Margot de Taxco and Gerardo Lopez’s work. You’ll find it in many Southwestern works in the 1950s, but it comes in vogue during the ‘60s and ‘70s in a very big way. In general, Art Nouveau has had a huge influence on art, globally. From buildings to jewelry, it’s a common thread in design for over 80 years.

Now that was a brain dump about Art Nouveau that you didn’t ask for, did you? Why? Well, I don’t need to say much about an immaculate ring, do I? It’s an old piece of turquoise with awesome filigree work. For those of us that’re into this sort of thing (ME!), we don’t need to be told much. Just “how much is shipping?” And, as usual, it’s free. See? I made it easy for you. Happy shopping!