This hand-wrought fine 950 silver ring by Mexican designer Mateo dates to the mid-20th century. The ring resembles a dynamic sculpture with texture and dimension and can be seen as modernist or brutalist due to its asymmetrical, sculptural details, such as the darkened silver areas at the base that form tendrils ending in polished silver.

The ring is bezel-set with an oval-shaped natural black sapphire measuring 9.5mm x 12.5mm. The sapphire displays gold-colored inclusions that resemble pin-flashes along the surface, moving across the stone as the ring moves. These gold-colored inclusions are a defining feature of black sapphires that  adds to their beauty and desirability as well as separates genuine black sapphires from fakes.

The inside of the ring features several hallmarks, including 950, Mateo, Mexico, Taxco, and the #2 eagle stamp. The eagle stamp pre-dates the current silver marking system in Mexico. It was used from 1948 until 1979, when it was discontinued. The ring shows some wear and has a warm patina consistent with use and age. #90 

Stamps: 950, MATEO, MEXICO, TAXCO, Eagle stamp #2

Face Height: 25.60mm

Rise Over Finger: 13.17mm

Band: 8.00mm tapering to 4.60mm

• Designer = Mexico Designer Mateo
• Material = Fine 950 Silver
• Metal Finish = Warm Patina
• Gemstone = Sapphire
• Shape/Cut = Oval Cabochon
• Gem Color = Black
• Weight (Grams) = 18.79G
• Measurements = Size 7.5
• Condition = Vintage

Item Number: 17163-112

Item ID: 106502

Category: Ring

Note: This item has been inspected and appraised by a GIA Graduate Gemologist Appraiser.

Diamond origin is tested using a GIA iD100 Gem Testing Device. Unless indicated otherwise, all diamonds are to be considered natural, earth-mined diamonds. All man-made, laboratory-grown, laboratory-created, or synthetic diamonds are well marked on the price tag as well as in the website description.

All diamond and gemstone grading is done under GIA standards as the mounting permits. All gemstone weights and measurements are approximate. Unless otherwise stated, colored gemstones may have commonly used clarity and color enhancing treatments per industry standards.

Prospective buyers should note that all jewelry we sell is 'used' and will likely have some amount of wear, we warranty that the item will be essentialy as we have described it, but no other warranties are expressed or implied, and all items are sold 'as is'.