Question Ring
QUESTION: Hello. I purchased this ring at a flea market about 15 years ago. Just recently, through cleaning, I learned it was solid 'Mexican Silver'. It is about 1.5 ounces, size 10. It is very heavy with strange designs. My local jeweler, and the few people I have asked, know nothing about it. Any help is greatly appreciated! The ring has an aztec face on the front (copper) and copper fleur-di-lils on the sides. It does have 'Mexico' stamped on the inner band.
ANSWER: Robert, thanks for this question. Special thanks for the nice and clear photo.
I would imagine the ring is not really old, including items made from 1950 or so to now. The construction and design are quite pleasing and the coloration in the recesses appears to be in fairly good condition. I doubt the color is hard fired (glass) enamel and likely an epoxy resin material of some sort. If you cannot tell the difference, a jeweler should be able to do that. Also, just what is "Mexican Silver"? I hear the term ever so often. Most silver I see which is produced in Mexico is sterling silver. Again, a jeweler who test metals should be able to tell you if the metal of the ring body is silver, perhaps not if sterling or coin silver. (By definition, sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver and the remainder in the mix is most often copper.) I have seen some silver from south of the border which is not pure but is of higher silver content than the 92.5% of sterling. From the photo, the face on the ring front looks too yellow for copper. Photo colors can be off a little so I do not know. You might have that part checked for metal quality also, just to be sure it is not precious metal.
It would be good for you to know if the ring is silver or costume metal of some sort. I would think it is silver but certainly cannot tell from here. : )
The design reaches into the historical heritage of the area and is not surprising to me, even if not the commonplace design seen. It could possibly have been purchased at an area close to ancient ruins and visible history.
I can say nothing of value because I do not any longer do appraisal services and could not in the first place without the ring in my hand and tested.
I have not said much on this ring but do wish you can find out as much as you desire.
Have wonderful holidays. God Bless and Peace.
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Ring 2
QUESTION: Thomas:
Thanks very much for your help! The information you have provided is definitely more I had. I have a feeling the ring will remain a curiosity. Thanks again for your time and insight.
AnswerRobert, I have to answer your kind comment because the allexperts machine will think I have a question left unattended! This will clear that.
Thanks for the great photos..once again. From the side view, the top does look more like copper.
Have wonderful holiday and special seasons. God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
