AM702.   Here is a very typical bead & coin necklace from Peru.  Coins were used in necklaces in a number of Hispanic countries but Peruvians were lovers of the colourful Venetian trade beads that arrived, and mixed them in with the red whitehearts.  These beads are all over 100 years old, and many have fine and delicate patterning on them.  Some of the beads has small chips at the ends from long wear.  These necklaces would swing when worn, and collide with things at times.  The silver coins go from about 1850 to 1906.  The entire necklace is 46 inches long.  It is tied with a knot at the end.   $540.US.  
AM709.   This is a very attractive strand of beads that came out of Peru.  Most of the beads came from Venice and were pupularly traded into South America.  Different parts of the world had very different preferences in their beads and the glass beads with the swirls around them were among the favourites here.  There are some bits of silver here as well, with caps on two beads, and one 7 layer chevron.  The inner layer is mostly worn down but you can see a little of that layer in the heart of the bead.  These are often worn on cord as this is (but this cord in new), but the beads could be put onto a softer strand with a clasp at the back.  There is a typical 1 1/4 inch long silver cross at the front.  There are 18 inches of beads on the strand.   $185.US.
AM710.   There are three preColumbian stone spindle whorls here.  Whorl #1 is 15/16 inches across and 7/16 inch tall.  It has some wear around the bottom that you can see on the photo.  $45.   Whorl #2 is 1 inch across and 9/16 inches tall.  $60.  Whorl #3 is 1 inch across and 3/8 inch tall.  $60.
AM711.   Here is a painting on masonite board measuring 7 3/4" by 11 3/4" which I bought from the painter himself:  Aureliano Lorenzo, in a Mexico city street market.  This portrays Comandante Marcos, the spokesperson for the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN), a Mexican rebel movement based in Chiapas.  This is acrylic paint in vibrant colours.   $35.US.
AM712.   This is a painting on masonite board (acrylic paints) measuring 7 3/4" by 11 3/4" which I bought from the painter:  Lucas Lorenzo (I believe he is the cousin of Aureliano above) from the state of Guerrero.  I found them selling their own paintings in a Mexico City street market and I was very taken with their imagery.  He is portraying the indigenous Danza de los Tecuanis (Dance of the Jaguars).   There are some images here.  The colours are lively and brilliant.   $35.US.   (sold)
AM713.   This painting has been done on masonite board with acrylic paints.  It measures 7 3/4" by 11 3/4".  I bought it at a Mexico City street market from the painter himself, Aureliano Lorenzo from the State of Guerrero.  This musician is a calavera (skeleton), imagery which is popular during los Dias de los Muertos (the Days of the Dead, when both life and death are celebrated).   $35.US.
AM714.   This painting has been done on masonite board with acrylic paints.  It measures 7 3/4" by 11 3/4".  I bought it at a Mexico City street market from the painter himself, Lucas Lorenzo from the State of Guerrero.  He and Aureliano are cousins and paint in similar styles.  This painting portrays 2 diablos (devils) from an indigenous dance which illustrates the good versus the bad of life.  Mexico is full of dances, many of them reflecting on various aspects of life over many years.   $35.US.   (sold)
AM715.   Here is a strand of antique Nueva Cadiz beads brought into South America by the Spanish.  According to current research they are thought to have been made in Venice.  These beads have coating on them created by burial.  Some of it has been cleaned to show the beads better, but it is a good indication of their age - a few hundreds of years possibly pre 1600.  The strand is a little over 21 inches long.  There are 5 twisted/spiral beads on the strand, the longest one being 1 15/16 inches long.  If these beads are to be worn you must be very careful as they are quite delicate from age.  I think that they would last longer if they were restrung onto a natural material and used in a display.   $380.US.
AM716.   I buy paintings at times, from an artist who sells in Mexico City street markets.  I love his work, in a traditional format that he has translated into a very personal work of his own.  He generally features lucha libre luchadores, Frida Kahlo, the Virgin of Guadalupe and various saints.  He is comedic at times as well.  Manuel Baumen works hard, painting on the back of the glass and inserting photos.  This piece says "Bendice mi Hogar" - bless this home.  The frame is 4 3/4 inches by 6 3/4 inches.  The frame is a simple one and you might be interested in using something more suitable to the work.   $35.US.   (sold)
AM718.   I have two strands of preHispanic/preColumbian beads here, both from Guerrero, Mexico.  Farmers still come across the beads when they are tilling soil or doing construction.  #1 is ready to string into a necklace.  The flat bead on the pendant is a dark seagreen colour and 1 1/2 inches tall.  The strand with tubulars and discs is 14 inches long.  You might need some additional beads at the back of the necklace to extend it. - $375.US   #2 has a very nice rectangular pendant at the bottom measuring slightly under 1 inch tall.  The necklace part is 15 inches long and looks great - just need restringing with some extra beads at the back - $350.US.   (#1 is sold)
AM724.   Here is a 20 inch long strand of dark stone preColumbian beads waiting to be restrung into a necklace.  The beads are lightly graduated and have a central bead that looks like quartz.  It is 5/8 inch in diameter.   $300.US.   (sold)
AM732.   There are two groups of preColumbian beads/pendants from the state of Morelos here.  The rectangular pendant in group #1 is over 1 1/8 inches tall.  A crystal bead is included.   $135.US.   Group #2 includes a brass bell, not as old as the preColumbian beads and pendants but well over 100 years anyway.  The tubular bead is 1 1/4 inches long.   $155.US.   (#2 is sold)
AM734.   This is a very attractive 3D medallion of the Madonna and baby, both crowned.  The medallion is a greyish metal and measures 2 3/8 inches in diameter.   $35.US.
AM735.   This is a gorgeous SouthWestern pair of coral/silver earrings.  They measure slightly over 3 inches from top of earloops to bottom of pendant.   $265.US.
AM736.   I have three self portraits of Frida Kahlo here.  They are set in a tin frame and have a tin backing with a hanging hook attached.  The images are 3 inches by 4 1/4 inches in size.  $15.US/each.
AM737.   Here is a bunch of plastic coin purses bought in Oaxaca, Mexico.  I love them and keep a collection myself holding travel money from various countries.  The bags average 3 3/4 inches wide, 3 1/2 inches tall and an inch thick and close with zippers.  This is the whole bunch.  I don't have duplicates that are not shown in the photo.   $12.US/each.
AM738.   I think these images of la Senora el Virgen de Guadalupe are stamped out of thick aluminum.  It can be easily bent so one has to be careful - and none of these are perfect.  All good, just not perfect.  You can use the pieces creatively.  I have a dozen or so sheets of them here.  The pieces are 3 3/4 inches by 5 inches.  $3.US/each.
AM741.   This silver (unpolished) coin pendant is 1 1/4 inches across and made as a medallion in Patzcuaro, Michoacan, Mexico.  It has an image of la Madre Santisima on one side, the patron saint of good health.  On the other side it says:   "Asociacion de Caballeros y Damas de Honor de la Madre Santisima de la Salud.  Patzcuaro, Mich."  It has a border of intricate flower images.  There is no year written on it so it would take some researching to date it.   $45.US.
AM743.   This necklace (needs to be restrung properly and with a clasp) came out of Ecuador.  It is made of shell with spondylus tubular beads and a very nice central pendant.  I am not sure without research what it is - an iguana?  Alligator?  The necklace is 18 1/2 inches long with a 1 3/4 inch long pendant.   $185.US.
AM744.   This strand of carnelian and crystal beads from the Tairona people of Colombia is 16 1/2 inches long, perfect as a necklace.  It just needs stringing up with an appropriate clasp.  I wish that the crystal beads were easier to see on the photo - the longest one is 1 5/8 inches long and 3/8 inch in diameter.   $375.US.
AM745.   I love this type of earring made in Mexico.  The typical image on one side that I often see in Puebla of a woman engulfed in flames, and on the other, the flaming heart.  The earrings have both images on them so that you can adjust them for one image or the other facing forward, or like here, one of each.  I paid full price for these so you can buy them for less in Mexico, but when I bought a pair for myself, I thought there might be someone else who falls in love with them as well and doesn't have the chance to search for them there.  The store only had the two pairs.  They are 1 3/8 inches tall.   $40.US.
AM746.   This is a beautifully made charm bracelet from Mexico from the fifties or sixties.  It takes a lot of labour to shape the pieces and construct them like this so they are no longer being made to the same standards.  The piece has a good firm clasp (takes effort to open it and can't accidentally slip off) and strong chain.  It measures 7 1/4 inches around when closed.   It weighs 57grams.  $250.US.
AM747.   I just found this among a lot of vintage jewellery.  It came from a very different place.  The silver pieces are "tweezers" from Colombia with the largest one in the middle measuring slightly over 1 1/2 inches tall.  One of them is still springy enough to work but the other two cannot be used without breaking them.  The necklace (which definitely needs re-stringing) is made up of vintage bone beads contrasting with shell/spondylus beads that are hundreds of years old.  The tweezers or pinchers are hundreds of years old as well.  The strand is 18 inches long.   $165.US.
AM748.   I found these silver earrings in a street market and didn't immediately want to part with them.  I do like looking at interesting pieces.  The hearts are the same on both sides so nicely 3D.  The dangles are half round.  The heart pendant can slip off the earwire, so that you can use the earwire for other pendants as well.  It is a slightly complex earwire that hinges at the back and is very secure when closed.  The earrings are slightly over 2 inches tall.   $110.US.   (sold)
AM749.   This is a rather wonderful strand of preColumbian/preHispanic beads from Mexico, (needing a clasp to officially be a necklace - and I prefer using a waxed cotton cord rather than fishing line they are often temporarily strung on) which was being worn by one of my contacts.  There are 26 inches of nicely graduated attractive green beads with a centerpiece over 1 1/2 inches across.   $680.US.   (sold)  
AM750.   The central bead of this 17 1/2 inch preColumbian necklace is a piece of 1 1/2 inch long gently curved shell - orange on one side, creamy on the other.  The beads are medium to dark green.   $300.US.
AM751.   This attractive green preColumbian stone bead strand is a little over 16 inches long.  It is nicely graduatted with a brighter coloured pendant bead in the center.   $375.US.   (sold)
AM752.   There are two strands of preColumbian beads here, one with a human figure, and the other with a mask as pendants.  Strand #1 (absolutely ready to re-string into a proper and memorable necklace) has 15 inches of nicely shaped, beautifully coloured greenstone beads.  The central pendant is a man stranding 1 1/2 inches tall with clearly defined eyes, nose, chin, arms and legs.  It is very attractive with a magical quality for me in the colouring of the stone.   $650.US.    #2 is a smaller, lighter strand, decorated with four shell beads for some contrast in colour.  The beads are slightly under 16 inches in legth with a centerpiece of a simply Guerrero stone mask 3/4 inches tall.   $450.US.   (#1 is sold)
AM753.   These are pale green beads that would turn slightly darker if they were oiled, as beads often are these days - to moisturize them a little.  The strand is slightly under 18 inches long, nicely graduated beads with 5 pendant beads at the bottom, the longest of which is 1 inch long.   $450.US.   (sold)
AM754.   Here is a 21 inch long strand of graduated preHispanic greenstone beads.  The smallest ones at the back are about 1/4 inch across and the largest are more than 1/2 inch across.  The colour is very attractive and the central pendant is just under an inch across.   $450.US.   (sold)
AM755.   I like the dark almost black beads like these - they look fantastic with a few silver beads or a pendant.  The old and the new often mix well.  These are preColumbian beads from the State of Morelos.  There are 20 inches with the center bead being 1/2 inch in diameter.   $400.US.   (sold)
AM756.   This strand was being worn when I bought it.  A loop goes over the double holed bead, that acts as a "button".  There are 15 inches of dark brown/green beads with a round central greenstone bead an inch in diameter.  The double holed piece is slightly over 1 inch in length.  Very terrific combination.   $470.US.
AM757.   This is a 22 inch long slightly rougher strand of preColumbian greenstone beads, mostly in shades of green.  The central bead is 7/8 inch long.   $380.US.   (sold)
AM758.   This strand is 24 inches long with a central tubular bead a little over 1 1/4 inches long and 1/2 inch in diameter.  The colours of the preColumbian beads vary from cream to grey to green.   $380.US.
AM759.   This 22 inch long strand of stone preColumbian beads has some variety included.  The longest beads are 1 inch long.  The central bead is 1 inch long as well.   $400.US.
AM760.   These preColumbian greenstone beads vary in colour and shape and measure to 19 inches in length.  The fattest one at the front is 5/8 inch in diameter.  There is a 1 1/4 inch long piece of shell in the back.  $380.US.
AM761.   Here is a mix of preColumbian stone beads along with shell.  There are 24 1/2 inches of beads with the central shell piece measuring 1 1/8 inch across.   $300.US.
AM762.   Here is a good heavy strand of preColumbian beads that will cost a little more than average in shipping.  This is nicely graduated at the back and very impressive and memorable with the selection of beads at the front.  I find this to be a very exciting strand, and would love to see it with a silver "S" hook clasp attached.  The entire strand is 23 inches long, the largest round bead is 1 1/4 inches across and the disc is 1 1/2 inches across.   $550.US.   
AM763.   This monumental strand of stone preColumbian beads from the State of Morelos is 23 inches long.  The rather amazing central bead is 1 3/4 inch in diameter, and nicely scored with lines.  It does not have a hole going through the center but two holes at the top where a cord can go in and out.  It has been broken across one side for hundreds of years and was found buried like that.  The fishing cord just snapped as I was measuring the strand so now the beads are mostly loose in the bag - ready to be re-strung (on something with more strength) once more.   $450.US.
AM764.   I fell in love with this necklace and am not a hundred percent sure that I really want to sell it.  It is very unusual, the first of the kind in my travels.  There is a variety of beads here.  The dark ones are preColumbian greenstone from Guerrero, and between them are tubular amber beads from Chiapas.  There is a naturally shaped piece of Chiapas amber as a 2 inch long pendant.  On either side of the amber is a new amethyst bead, and acting as a button at the back of the necklace is a new facet green coloured stone bead.  The necklace is 15 1/2 inches around when closed.   $300.US.
AM765.   Here is a very heavy strand of preColumbian beads - I am sure heavier than you can imagine.  The part that goes around the neck is 20 inches.  There are two beads acting like a pendant at the back, and a human figure acting as a pendant at the front.  The man is gleaming highly, shining from initial polishing.  He is 1 5/8 inches tall.  There is one broken bead on the strand at the lower part of the strand on the photo, going into one of the earspools.  If you look carefully you can see that the end has been chipped/broken.  These come from an old collection.   $550.US.   (sold)
AM766.   This is an excellent strand of preColumbian greenstone beads measuring about 22 inches around.  There is an excellent variety of beads on this strand which would work individually as well.  They come from an old collection as well.  The central bead is 1 5/8 inches across and the longest bead is 2 1/8 inches long.  Very impressive.   $650.US.   (sold)
AM767.   More heavy beads from an old collection.  Big and dramatic.  These preColumbian beads are closer to jade than they are to greenstone.  They have less speckling of colour and more transluscency.  The strand is 17 inches long and the largest bead at the front is 1 1/2 inches across.  They have quite a shine to them.   $600.US.   (sold)
AM768.   This is the fourth strand from the same collection.  The strand of heavy preColumbian beads is 19 inches around.  An earspool has been used to make a central pendant 1 7/8 inches long including the round bead above it.  The longer tubular bead is slightly over 2 inches long.   $600.US.   (sold)
AM769.   This pendant/celt is from the Tairona people of Colombia.  It is 4 7/8 inches long.  It has not been damaged (many have been broken and glued together again) although there is one little "bite" out of it at the bottom, which is just a part of the stone itself.  I haven't had one of these for sale for many years.   $350.US.
AM770.   This is a modern interpretation of preColumbian carving.  The pendant is oval, and the figure of a man has been cut into it.  There are two holes at the back for stringing through so that it hangs nicely as a pendant.  The stone is 1 1/4 inches tall.   $22.US.
AM771.   This preColumbian stone cared animal was described to me as being a "rana", a frog, but I am not sure that is accurate.  Some research would need to be done comparing the carving on this piece with documented ones.  The creature is 2 3/4 inches from nose to back, and just over 1 1/2 inches tall.  The stone has a slight texture to it, and sits nicely in my hand.  I was lucky to find this little animal and enjoy examining it.   $275.US.   (sold)
AM772.   There are three Spanish coins here, all holed to be used in jewellery, most likely necklaces.  The two small ones (3/4 inches across, 1774 & 1809 1 real) could easily become earrings and the larger one (1 1/16 inch across, 1813, 2 reales) a pendant.   $45.US/all three.
AM773.   This silver peso from 1943 was altered in a prison.  Prisoners would spend time working on turning coins into jewellery, milagros, or other items to bring good wishes and luck.  This coin has had church steeples and an angel created within the circle of the piece - 1 3/8 inches across.  These pieces are often thought of as magical items, because of the circumstances under which they were made.  They are very collectible.   $75.US.   (sold)
AM774.   This silver medal has the Senora de San Juan de Los Lagos on one side, and an image of the cathedral at San Juan de Los Lagos, Jalisco, Mexico on the other.  The Senora performed her first miracle in 1632 and people return on pilgrimmages.  The medal is 1 9/16 inches across and has a large loop for hanging.   $45.US.
AM775.   This is a lovely and unusual pendant made out of amber from Chiapas.  It is a think slice that the carver/artist has turned into the head of a jaguar.  (the contrast is nicer in real life than in the photo)  He used carbon to make the black spots.  He carved out the spots, filled them, and sealed them in.  He also created a small eye at the top of the head.  Your cord goes through the jaguar's mouth...   It is 2 3/8 inches at the longest.   $38.US.   (sold)
AM776.   There are two dried gourds here, turned into water containers (or pulque, mezcal or tequila) by an older man in Malinalco.  They are tied with cords so that they can be strung over your shoulder.  Gourd #1 is 4 12 inches tall plus cork.   $18.US.   Gourd #2 is 3 3/4 inches tall plus cork.   $15.US.   The "corks" are made from the centers of corn husks.
AM777.   Here is a magical piece, a sirena or mermaid carved from wood and made into a sling-shot.  A young man from Malinalco is the carver and I think he had a wonderful vision.  From the top of her head to the bottom of her tail it is 11 3/4 inches.  She is holding a spiral shell and has a meditative look on her face with eyes closed.  I would not use this as a sling-shot (though it is all set up) but as a piece of art instead.  Just beautiful and unexpected.  Malinalco is a town though, of both rebozos and wood carving.   $85.US.   (sold)
AM778.   Here is a second magical piece, made by the cousin of the carver above.  A gourd has been polished and a drawing of a colibri or hummingbird and plants carved into it.  It has a rich colour and a smooth finish.  A wooden piece continues as a hangle and finishes with the carving of a colibri.  It has a long beak and is poised to fly.  The entire piece is 13 1/2 inches long and the hummingbird at the end 3 1/2 inches including beak.  The gourd has seeds in it so that it rattles when used in music.  I fell in love with this as well.   $85.US.   (sold)
AM779.   The shape of this carving is rectangular though my photo gives it a bit of an angle.  This is a slice of wood 1/2 inch thick and carved with an image of the temple at the pyramid at Malinalco, Mexico State, Mexico.  You have to put in a hanging hook - I just have it leaned up against the wall right now.  This is a great memory of a magical town.   6 inches by 8 inches rectangle.   $60.US.
AM780.   This is a small wood ofrenda to the Virgin of Guadalupe.  It is 3 1/2 by 5 1/4 inches and an inch thick.  An image of the Virgin of Guadalupe sits inside with some glistening decorations, and covered by glass.  There are flowers on the outside and a wooden piece inside representing a candle.  The colours are great.  There is a hood at the top for hanging.   $20.US.   (sold)
AM781.   I put together these earrings with coloured niobium earwires that will not have any allergic effect on your earholes.  It is a very clean metal coloured by heat, not by dyes.  The tiny copper pots are from Santa Clara del Cobre, Michoacan, Mexico.  All handmade, each pot is different having been shaped by hammering and then soldering.  The earrings in the preview picture are 1 1/2 inches from top of earwire to bottom of pot.   $18.US/pair
AM782.   I often see these bag hangers in Mexico but haven't seen them used at home.  They are very practical (as long as your bag handles are not bulky) as you can slip them onto a table so have your bag hanging safely next to you.  This one has a decorative disc that is 1 1/2 inches across.  When placed on a table it hangs down 3 1/2 inches.  It lays flat in a soft bag which you can use to store it in your bag when not in use.  Quite brilliant I think.  I only have one of this style.   $26.US.
AM783.   This bag hanger is a little smaller than the one above.  The decorative discs are 1 1/4 inches across and when placed on a table it hangs down 3 inches.  The hook itself is an inch long.   Hanger #1 has an image from a self portrait of Frida Kahlo on it.   Hanger #2 also has an image from a self portrait of Frida Kahlo.  The third hanger has an image from Diego Rivera.   $20.US/each.

AM429.    Here are two strands which are a mix of cultures.  These two Tairona preColumbian nose ornaments were once covered with gold.  Now the  bronze castings show a green oxidization instead.  They have been casually wired onto strands of ancient beads - carnelians cut in India and traded into North Africa and some ancient blue Roman glass beads as well.  It might be best to take of the preColumbian pieces and use them on different projects than the beads.  A confusion of cultures, but this is how I bought the pieces.  Strand #1 is 26 inches long with a nose piece a little over an inch wide.  Strand #2 is 28 inches long with a nose piece 1 1/2 inches wide at the widest.  $295.US/each strand.  

   AM438.   Here is a curious figure carved out of a green stone with some bright jade like colours showing within it.  The character is 1 5/16 inches tall and a fairly flat slab 5/16 inch thick.  The back is quite plain.  The 21 inch long necklace is made of preColumbian beads (and pendant) from Peru - including green and silver spacers and long oval silver beads.  $725.US.

   AM442.   Here is another sweetie - a dog-like creature (it is a Peruvian animal from preColumbian days) carved of spondylus shell.  It is 1 1/4 inches side and strung onto  23 inch strand of beads.  The beads are made of silver, spondylus, stone, and closed with a modern clasp.   $625.US.

  AM449.   This is a very attractive vintage shawl pin from Peru or Bolivia or somewhere close by.  I am not quite sure what kind of animal the monkey is riding on - a dog?  This is a cast piece soldered onto the hammered stick pin.  It has a nice winding to it, and a hook behind the animal's head so that when you pin it in, it will stay in place.  The pin is made of a mix of metals which polishes up nicely.  It has four loops for hanging beads or pendants from.  The originals have disappeared over the years...  The pin is 5 inches long and quite unique.   $145.US.

  AM450.   I had a P.E.I. bracelet above made by the same manufacturer in the same configuration with the snap closing.  I love this closing and wish that I could buy snaps like this to use myself.  It is a firm and attractive closure.  The bracelet is made of base metal but in good strong relief patterns which portray scenic places in Vancouver, Canada.  The first image is the BC flag, then City Hall, Prospect Point, Lion's Bridge Gate, the Hollow Tree which is making the news right now as it is becoming in danger of collapse, and the coat of arms.  When closed the bracelet is slightly over 7 inches long.   $65.US.

  AM452.   This is a trememdous, amazing group of large preColumbian carnelian pendants from the Tairona of Colombia.  This is expensive because of their rarity.  the largest pendant in the center is 1 9/16 inches long and 5/8 inch across at its base.  The next largest pieces are 1 3/8 inches long.  There are also barrel beads, oval beads, bullet beads and smaller pendants.  It is a very good collection.  The ready to wear necklace is only 14 1/2 inches long.  It can be increased in length with the addition of some extra beads.  Luckily it fits me nicely sitting right at the base of my neck.  When heavy necklaces sit so close their weight is distributed evenly and I find them very comfortable.   $1950.US.  

  AM453.   The carnelian and stone beads at the front of this necklace are Tairona from Colombia.  They measure 7 1/4 inches and include 7 attractive pendants.  I do like the mix of colours here.  The entire ready to wear necklace is  19 inches long.  The silver beads are from a totally different culture but are close in shape to beads that were made in the preColumbian period in the same area.  These are beads from Ethiopia though...  $350.US for the necklace.

  AM461.   I like the feel of tools in my hand.  They often sit nicely in my palm and since they have been used so much they fit well.  This cuts or scraps.  It is preColumbian from Mexico, it is small, just 1 3/4 inches tall and has a nice smooth blade to it.   $60.US.

  AM467.   Most of these preColumbian beads are stone from the area of the state of Mexico.  There are a few pottery spindle whorls though.  It is a nice mix with a stone bead pendant in the middle.  The necklace measures 24 inches long.   $255.US.   

  AM468.   Here are some pale rough stone preColumbian beads from the state of Mexico.  The beads include volcanic ones.  The strand is 23 inches long and at a bargain price.   $135.US.   (sold)

  AM469.   This is a 24 inch long strand of preColumbian clay beads.  There are round beads with stripes circling them in dots as well as bird shaped beads.  The round beads average 3/4 to 7/8 inch in diameter.  The birds average 1 1/4 inches from end of beak to end of tail.  One bird has its head missing but the others are in quite good condition.  It is always remarkable how clay beads like these can last as long as they do.  $250.US.  

  AM473.   Here is a true treasure and collectors item.  This is a capote de paseo for a Mexican matador.  It is a cloak that is worn over one shoulder while the other is tucked under the opposite arm.  The Virgin of Guadalupe is embroidered there to protect the matador from harm.  You might typically see photos of the very fancy, very ornate capotes of the top matadors of the country.  This instead was made for a matador from a smaller pueblo with a lot of local love within it.  This is totally made by hand - I couldn't find a single machine stitch anywhere on it so the work is quite immense.  There are spangles and all kinds of flourishes in gold against a deep sea green/blue.  The embroidered flowers stand out beautifully and the Virgin at 7 1/2 inches tall is very impressive.  The capote when lying on my floor stretches 53 inches across from one side to the other.  The widest part is 21 inches high.  If you would like to see how they are worn you can google "capote de paseo" under "images".  A few can be found on flickr.com as well.  This is a vintage piece and the lining has some bleaching, some spots and some irregularities on it.  The outside has a couple of spots that I imagine could be reasonably cleaned.  It would look quite wonderful hanging on the wall.    $375.US.

  AM476.   I have four pendants here from Mexico.  Some are decorated on both sides, and others just on the one side.  They are all sterling grade silver and religious in nature.  #4 is 1 inch across in diameter.  $22.US/each pendant

  AM478.   This is a good sized Yalalag cross from the area of Oaxaco.  It is 6 1/2 inches tall and quite heavy.  This is made of mixed metals with some bits of silver but mostly brass.  It is very impressive.  $110.US.

  AM479.   This is a vintage paperweight which I bought in a market in Mexico City.  It is made of glass so quite heavy.  It had felt on the bottom but much of that is worn off.  It could easily be replaced.  The image inside is of the madonna with the baby, and it has a romantic old look to it which I like very much.  This measures 3 inches in diameter and is 1 1/2 inches tall.   $75.US.

  AM480.   This is a very beautifully made, cast sterling silver pin.  This is a vintage piece, over 50 years old.  There was once another leaf at the bottom of the design but it has broken off years ago.  The pin is normally pushed through a shawl or sweater.  It has a pin added to the back so that it can be fastened without a worry of falling out and being lost.  Birds are important in Mexican art often for their air of romance.  The pin is 4 7/8 inches long and the wings of the bird are truly 3-D, made individually which is quite unusual.   $135.US.

  AM481.   I was pleased to find such a lovely and artistic pendant, carved in a preColumbian style but newly made.  The stone is a correct type and the image is very close to original ones that I have seen in museums.  The face pendant is just under 2 inches tall.  The necklace itself has true preColumbian stone beads mixed with modern brass ones - 24 1/2 inches long   $345.US.

  AM482.   This is a precious little sterling silver vintage pendant.  The monkey is riding on a deer and must be expressing some curious story.  The pin is 1 1/4 inches tall.  $110.US.

  AM487.   Here is an impressive gold (I can't give you an accurate percentage) pendant which originated in the area of Costa Rica and Panama before they existed.  You can view gold pieces in the Costa Rica gold museum to compare this with varieties of the same bird pendant that they have there.  This is a bird that has had repairs but they don't detract from its attractiveness.  Both wings have been repaired as has the tail.  From behind you can see where the repairs were made but this is typical of ancient gold pieces as they have been buried and easily broken.  The gleaming gold bird has a snake in its mouth which it holds with its beaks and with its claws.  The piece is 2 3/8 inches wide at the wings and 2 7/8 from top to bottom.  The piece is strung with greenstone beads from Mexico as well as a few shell beads.  The greenstone is a good colour with some quite bright ones reminding me of jade included.  I wish that I had more delicate beads to string it with but wanting to keep the entire piece in the same time zone I didn't have another substitute.  This is a remarkable and attractive piece.   $2250.US.  

  AM489.   Here is a very interesting pendant bought in the S(#1 & #5 aretate of Veracruz in eastern Mexico.  It look like a seated person although when suspended it hangs with the stringing holes at the top and the longest side of the pendant making a horizontal line.  The piece measures 3 inches along the longest side.  This is a very curious piece.  I had a knowledgeable customer tell me this:  "...this is a broken Mezcala anthropomorphic carving, it would normally have legs (you can see one leg) with the head at top.  The piece was drilled at one time in order to make it a pendant.  Mezcala Culture, Guerrerro, Mexico, roughly 200 BC."   I always appreciate knowledge being passed on.    $145.US.

  AM491.   Here are some bargain preColumbian stone & pottery necklaces.  They are a rather rusty earth colour but can be washed to get a better colour.  They are irregular shapes and useful for a variety of projects.   $95.US/each strand.

  AM493.   These earrings are great fun.  I bought a number of key chains featuring a coffee can from the Cafe Colon shop in Xalapa, Veracruz - then used sterling silver loops and earwires and turned them into earrings.  The 7/8 inch tall cans (1 5/8 inches from top of hoop to bottom of can) are just perfect in detail showing a local woman with a cup of coffee at the front.  The cans say:  "Cafe Colon - genuino Coatepec" , "desde 1963 excellencia en cafe",  "100% Arabica",  "hecho en Mexico" as well as the address and phone/fax numbers of the main shop in Xalapa.  This is actually very delicious coffee and the place is famous in the area.  These are a perfect gift for any coffee lovers...  (I just have a few pairs remaining as they have been sent to various countries around the world)   $26.US/each pair   (all sold)

  AM494.   This is an 8 reale bronze coin from Mexico, dating at 1813.  It has a rather delicate counterstamp on it adding to its history.  I don't know the story of the coin - it will require research by the new owner.  It measures 1 1/2 inches across.   $65.US.

  AM495.   Here is a group of trade tokens from Mexico - mostly dating to the 1800s.  The tokens are made of bronze, hand stamped, and the one to the left measures slightly over 1 1/8 inches across.  Landowners or hacienda owners would pay their workers with tokens, then the tokens would be used in the hacienda owners' stores to buy their necessities.  The tokens were all very specific to particular properties and could not be used in other areas.  #1 says "PROVICIONAL DEZ ...IN OCTAVO 1833" and has an image of an eagle on it.  It is plain on the other side.   #2 is unclear and seems to say "...NISTRACION DE MINAS 1855" on one side and "...S.M. DE 1/8" on the other.  (#2 is sold)   #3 says "1/8 1824" on one side and has a bunch of grapes with "B T" on the other.   #4 says "SAYULA 1/8 1830" on one side and the other side is flat.   #5  says "PUEBLA DE JALA 1833" on one side and "LUIS ...APIS 1/8" on the other.   $32.US/each trade token   #6 says "H. LA FLOR 1877" on one side and has a sculpted flower on the other - $50.US.

  AM496.   The rectanglular trade tokens average 1 3/16 inches across.  Token #1 says "COCULA 1808" on one side and "HOMERO CUARTO" on the other.   (#1 is sold)    #2 says "AMECA 1/8" on one side and "1855 T.A." on the other.   #3 has "AMECA 1/8" on one side and "1855 T.A." on the other.   #4 says "VILLA BENITO" on one side and "1/8 1825" on the other.   #5 says "VILLA DE COLIMA 1853" on one side and it has a plain back.   #6 says "UN OCTAVO 1835" on one side and "HACIENDA MUNICIPAL DE OSTOTITLAN" on the other.    $30.US/each trade token

  AM497.   The square trade tokens here measure 1 5/16 inches across.   Token #1 says "HDA. DE LACOS MANUEL JIMENES" on one side and "VALE 20 LITROS DE MAIZ 1906" on the other.  #2 says "MINA DEL EDEN ZAC. 1874" on one side and "VALE UNA CARGA DE METAL" on the other.   #3 says "MINA DEL EDEN ZAC. 1874" on one side and "VALE UNA CARGA DE METAL" on the other.   #4 says "1872 PARRA" on one side and "1/8 XALPA" on the other.   #5 says "1913" on one side and "50 cent PARRAL" on one side and "1913" on the other.   #6 says "1872 PARRA" on one side and "1/8 XALPa" on the other.    $45..US/each trade token  

  AM499.   I have the same type of bracelet up above at AM450.  That one is from P.E.I. though and this one is for Quebec, Canada.  I think that these are all attractive having had one for Calgary in the past.  A collection of Canada would be an interesting one.  This bracelet portrays:  Quebec City 1608, Chateau Frontenac, Parliament, Porte St. Louis, La Basilique and Spencerwood.  It is 7 inches long and closes with a very tidy snap shut.  It is not silver, but silver coloured.   $65.US.

  AM502.   What a sweet and strange little guy.  I couldn't resist him.  This sterling silver pin is a Mexico souvenir piece from the 50s or 60s.  The little boy on his burro is 2 1/4 inches tall.  His sombrero has a nice wide 3-D rim, he has an odd and peaceful look on his face and the burro strands quietly there.   $125.US.  

  AM504.   These Mezcala preColumbian abstract stone figures are simple but evocative.  They come from an area in the State of Guerrero close to Morelos.  There are some amazing pyramids close to there like Xochicalco.  They are much nicer in real life as one can cradle a sculpture in their hand.  These sculptures do not have stringing holes in them.  They were meant to be used more as talismans.  A cord could be tied around the figures under the heads and they could be turned into pendants.  One would have to be very careful though, that all was tied tight so that they could not fall and break.  The pieces have flat backs and are sculpted the most deeply on the sides.  Sculpture #1 is 2 3/8 inches tall - $145.US.   Sculpture #2 is 2 5/8 inches tall - $145.US.    Sculpture #3 is 1 7/8 inches tall - $135.US.

  AM507.   These are fairly rough beads but good ones.  They are preColumbian beads from Guerrero - the area close to Mexico City.  Bead #1 is flared and 1 1/4 inches across.  It is 1/2 inch tall.  $45.US.   Bead #2 is thick and dark grey.  It is 1 inch long and 7/8 inch in diameter with a good sized hole.  $40.US.   Bead #3 has a nice natural shape.  It is 1 1/8 inches long and 3/4 inch diameter at the widest.  It will sit nicely as a central bead on a necklace.   $45.US.   (#3 is sold)

  AM510.   There are three face pendants here, each very different from the other.  They do all come from the State of Guerrero.  Pendant #1 is a warm rounded greenstone.  It is 1 1/8 inches tall and 7/8 inch wide.  It is over 1/2 inch thick.  The face is simple with a straight mouth across and the stringing hole is at the top of the back - the hole going from the top to the back.  Very typical.   $85.US.   Pendant #2 is tiny but has a very clear face.  It is 5/8 inches tall and a nice mottled greenstone.  It has a typical hole at the top of the pendant in the back.   $45.US.   #3 has a straightfordward face - a line across as a mouth and two deep wideset eyes.  This is a mottled dark grey stone holed at the back, at the top of the back.   $40.US.   (#2 is sold)

  AM512.   This is a 13 1/2 inch long strand of preColumbian beads from Mexico.  They could easily make the kind of necklace that Frida Kahlo would have typically worn.  Some of these beads have been very carefully shaped so that they are nicely smoothed.  The largest bead on the strand is 1 inch long and 1 1/8 inch in diameter.  The beads are all coloured in greys and creams.  Some still have surface reminders of their long burial.  I always think of when pieces were first worn and when I walk through entrances in pyramids or walk through the walls of old buildings I imagine how people were dressed and how the beads are of the same types of stones as the buildings used.   $330.US.  

  AM518.   Here is a rough but interesting bunch of preColumbian stone beads from the State of Mexico.  They might be a bit awkward for making a necklace with but they are of an impressive size and type and perfect for a collector.  The large flared bead is 1 1/2 inches long, 1 1/8 inches in diameter at the narrow end and 1 7/8 inches wide at the wide one.  These are quite heavy.  Laid out it is a 13 inch strand.  $400.US.

  AM519.   I don't usually buy spoons but it this case I couldn't help it.  This is a tourist spoon, but an old one.  The spoon is 5 1/4 inches long and is covered with intriguing images.  At the top is the eagle holding a snake in its beak - symbol of Mexico.  Below that is a burro carrying bags, and below the burro is an agave plant with a man with a sac on his back making pulque.  Above him are the words:   Pulque Gatherer.  Pulque is a fermented drink made from the agave, but since it constantly ferments a true pulque cannot be bottled.  You could be wandering through a market or passing through a town and you might be offered pulque to buy from the man who made it.  There are some pulquerias as well but they are becoming rare.

  AM522.   This collection of scrapers is from Guatemala.  #1 is 1 3/4 inches long and 1 1/4 inches at the widest.  You can compare the others to that one.  These are all smoothly finished with a good edge on them.  Numbers 1 through 4 are $68.US/each.  Number 5 is $80.US.   (#1, #2, #3 & #4 are sold)

  AM523.   I fell in love with this statue when I saw it for sale from a carver in Malinalco.  I kept walking past it and finally had to stop and buy it.  Talking with the artist I kept looking at him and then at the mask and realized it was a self portrait - so you can see the artist who created this.  His name is Gabriel Vergara, and he is from Chalmita Ocuilan in the State of Mexico.  The country is full of art from ancient to the present.  This mask is carved from wood (you can see how the back has been gouged out) and decorated with bone from a bull.  The eyes are set with pieces of shell.  The mask is 6 1/8 inches tall and 4 1/8 inches wide.  It stands out over 3 inches and has a hole to use to hang it.   $285.US.

  AM524.   Oh, the stories, the histories, the travails of the luchadores are part of life in Mexico.  In Mexico City there are a number of places to watch the wrestling (lucha libre) as well as museums dedicated to some, and restaurants owned by others.  I bought one of these bracelets for myself, and then three others for those who are interested in the luchadores but won't have the chance to stop in the city and buy one of these.  The bracelets are woven of seed beads, and close with knots and loops made from beads as well.  When closed the bracelet winds around for 6 3/4 inches.  These will be great on a bare arm in the warm weather and I am sure will cause a smile here and there...   $38.US/each bracelet.

  AM615.   The three bracelets here have been made by the Huichol people.  Both men and women work on these, and the designs follow the interests of the makers.  Bracelet #1 is for a wrist of 6 1/2 to 6 3/4 inches.   Bracelet #2 is for a wrist of 6 1/2 to 7 inches.   Bracelet #3 with the Virgen de Guadalupe is for a 6 1/2 to 7 inch wrist.  They are each  $26.US.

  AM616.   I am amazed at the talent of the Huichol women of Mexico to build three dimensional pieces like the bracelet illustrated here.  It has two layers of leaves rising up from the wristband of leaves, and then stamens come out of the flowers as well.  It is a little over 7 inches around and beckons Spring.  $35.US.    The necklace sits very nicely around the neck with the design extending out.  The inside of the piece is 17 1/2 inches around.  The necklace is 2 inches tall.  $45.US.   (necklace is sold)

  AM618.   This is a new pin (last ten years or so) that was made by casting a copy of an antique one.  The original design most likely originated in South America and was used to keep a woolen shawl closed.  There is a loop under the flowers where beads or something special or colourful could be attached.  The sterling silver pin is 6 1/5 inches long.  $35.US.

  AM619.   This is a beautiful strand of blown glass beads which were cherished in Guatemala and southern Mexico.  This strand has a great variety so is excellent for a collector - shapes, sizes and colours vary a huge amount.  There are 30 inches of beads on the strand, and two coins tied onto it.  The coins are silver, 1/2 real, and from Guatemala - 5/8 inches across.  One reads 1945 but the beads are older than the coins and antique, most likely made in Bohemia.  The glass is very thin on the beads so they do need to be handled with care.   $275.US

  AM621.   I haven't had preColumbian jasper, agate and bloodstone beads from Colombia for a while so I was glad to come across these.  Robert Liu illustrates some similar ones on pages 148 and 150 of his necessary book "Collectible Beads".  These are hardstone beads which were a challenge to shape and to drill.  The colours range from black streaked like marble with white, to moss green and dark brick red.  Less bright than they appear on the photo.  The Tairona people were the master bead makers of Colombia and these beads are a part of their work.  The strand is 22 inches long plus a 2 1/2 inch long pendant.  The longest bead on the pendant is 2 inches long and a little over 3/8 inch in diameter.  it is wearable as is but strung on fishing line and a good strong natural cord would be an improvement.   $475.US.

  AM625.   This is a rather wonderful, very large shawl pin from Peru - known as a Quechua.  Firstly it is much more attractive than it looks in the photo.  I just couldn't get the colour of the silver correct - it is similar to the colour of the piece above (AM624), not as yellow as it appears here, but a much cleaner colour.  This does test as silver though not quite sterling grade.  This is the most complex pin that I have seen and very 3-dimensional as you can see in this image here.  The pin is 11 1/2 inches long and the round section is about 3 1/2 inches in diameter.  The round part has been hammered into a complex image of flowers, leaves, animals, and baskets.  Above that are placed floral pieces holding coloured glass stones, as well as a 3 dimensional musician with a long flute, and another with a guitar shaped instrument.  To the right hand side is a Spaniard with a rifle.  In front of him there are animals.  At the top of the pin is a bird holding a chain with a large pot hanging from it.

  AM628.  Here is a traditional sterling silver charm bracelet from Mexico.  Pieces like this have traditionally been made since the forties & fifties.  They are always time consuming to make as the shapes of the charms are all constructed individually by hand.  There are two pitchers, an Aztec calendar, a sombrero, a sandal, and a cooking grill.  There is also a cowbell with a little ringer inside so that it makes a delicate sound.  Thes pieces are very well made.  The bracelet is 7 1/4 inches long when closed.   $120.US.

  AM630.   I have a group of preColumbian (preHispanic) beads from the Tairona people of Colombia.  They have a long history of aesthetic accomplishments including beautiful beads, goldwork and ceramics.  The Tairona lived in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Maria - an area in Colombia including both mountains and a coastal region.  These people had a strong civilization beginning before 200BC but being marginalized by the Spanish by the 1600s when traditional cultures were being destroyed.  The Tairona are famous for their beads, and I was lucky to get these five strands for a reasonable price that I can pass on to the collectors.  This strand is 22 inches long and includes 7 "bullet beads" highly collectible on their own and very distinctive to the Tairona society.  The strand includes jasper, bloodstone, carnelian and crystal.  The longest tubular bead is 1 1/2 inches long, and the longest bullet bead is 1 1/8 inches long.  This is ready to string up into a necklace     $475.US

  AM632.   This is a richly coloured strand of preColumbian (preHispanic) beads from the Tairona people of Colombia.  They have a long history of aesthetic accomplishments including beautiful beads, goldwork and ceramics.  The Tairona lived in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Maria - an area in Colombia including both mountains and a coastal region.  These people had a strong civilization beginning before 200BC but being marginalized by the Spanish by the 1600s when traditional cultures were being destroyed.  The Tairona are famous for their beads, and I was lucky to get these five strands for a reasonable price that I can pass on to the collectors.  The 23 inch long strand includes 4 crystal spacer beads, 1 gusano (grub), and two of the smallest "bullet" beads that I have ever seen alongside.  The longest bead is 1 1/4 inches.    $430.US

  AM633.   This is a substantial strand of preColumbian (preHispanic) beads from the Tairona people of Colombia.  They have a long history of aesthetic accomplishments including beautiful beads, goldwork and ceramics.  The Tairona lived in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Maria - an area in Colombia including both mountains and a coastal region.  These people had a strong civilization beginning before 200BC but being marginalized by the Spanish by the 1600s when traditional cultures were being destroyed.  The Tairona are famous for their beads, and I was lucky to get these five strands for a reasonable price that I can pass on to the collectors.  This 24 inch long strand has a great variety of beads on it from richly coloured dark bloodstone beads to pale carnelian slices acting as spacers.  There are 12 crystal beads, 4 "bullet" beads, and a lovely pale carnelian center bead.  The central bead is 1 1/8 inch long and over 1/2 inch in diameter.  The longest tubular bead is a little over 1 1/2 inches long.  The beads are very nicely matched up.   $430.US

  AM635.   This is a charming group of preHispanic/preColumbian beads.  Two of them are shaped like larvae or grubs.  The one on the left of the preview image is 5/8 inch long.  The small creamy one (1/2 inch long) is a tiny "bullet" bead.  These are often gathered together in groups on necklaces from the Tairona people of Colombia.  Seven beads for  $135.US.

  AM636.   Here is an inexpensive preHispanic/preColumbian necklace from the Tairona people of Colombia, South America.  The central greenstone bead is the charmer on this piece, 2 7/8 inches long and 1/2 inch in diameter.  The other beads consist of more greenstone, bloodstone and bauxite.  There is one carnelian bead but it has two big chips on it.  It does look fine on the necklace as they are all beads with a long history, but the piece can be easily restrung without it.  The spacer beads are stone, shell, and seeds.  The necklace is 21 inches long.   $220.US.

  AM637.   Here are 32 inches of preHispanic/preColumbian stone beads from Colombia.  They were made by the Tairona people and have been buried for hundreds of years.  The longest tubular bead is 1 inch long.  the beads came from a collection put together in the fifties and sixties.  This is a nice contrast in beads of good earth tones.   $300.US.

  AM638.   There are 25 1/2 inches of preHispanic/preColumbian stone beads from the Tairona people of Colombia.  These beads have been buried for hundreds of years.  There are still bits of the old dirt on them - a memory of their own past.  The central bead is 1 1/2 inches long and 5/8 inch in diameter.  There is a variety of stones here ranging in earth colours of browns, greys, light green and even some pale pink agate.  This is ready to make into a necklace.   $245.US.

  AM642.   I love getting these groups of beads that have a character of the place where they were collected.  These preColumbian beads came from Veracruz.  Strand #1 has an interesting collection within it of round, tubular, tooth shaped, and one face bead.  The face bead is the creamy one that you can see in the preview on the left.  It has two soft barely there eyes and a delicate impression of a mouth.  The longer tubular bead is 2 inches long.  The entire strand is just under 13 inches long.  With some beads to go behind the neck, this could be a fascinating necklace.   $300.US.    Strand #2 is a short strand (only 7 1/2 inches long) but it contains a wonderful pendant of a man which is 2 1/4 inches tall - becoming very hard to come across.  The stringing holes across his chest are quite large and a strong cord could go through.  This strand came from Veracruz as well.   $300.US.   (#1 is sold)

  AM643.   Here are two pale strands of preColumbian beads, made of a softer stone than greenstone.  They are closer to a pale fresh colour than this photo demonstrates.  It was impossible for me to get the colour correct.  Strand #1 has a nice selection of rounded beads measuring 15 inches in length.  The fattest one is just under an inch in diameter and the one tubular bead is 1 1/4 inches long.  Many of the beads have a chalky feel to them.   $250.US.   Strand #2 is a combination of rounded and tubular beads with that same chalky surface.  The strand is 20 inches long.  3 of the beads have lines going from top to bottom to portray melons.  I saw similar beads in the Museo Nacional del Antropologia in Mexico City.   $325.US.

  AM646.   These two strands of preColumbian beads are largely made of greenstone.  Quartz is included as well.  The beads are hefty, many have the remains of burial on them.  After all, they have been buried for over a thousand years.  Strand #1 is about 17 inches long with a triangular pendant (reminds me of the typical pyramid) which is slightly over 1 inch tall.   $300.US.   Strand #2 is just over 19 inches long.  The central bead is just under 1 1/2 inches across, and the longest tubular bead is 1 7/8 inches long.   $350.US.   (#2 is sold)

  AM649.   This is a rather wonderful (and loud) preColumbian clay whistle from the state of Veracruz in Mexico.  The 5 1/2 inch tall creature has legs attached and moveable arms.  The whistle is blown into at a hole just below the left knee - and the air hole is just below the waist.  This has chapopote on it which is a kind of black pigment that was used to paint with.  In Veracruz this could be found in oil deposits that had seeped to the ground.  You can see the tiniest flecks of light in the clay where bits of mica exist.  I don't know what this creature is - it needs research.  Discovering a piece like this, in excellent condition (nothing has been broken - there are no repairs) with attached arms is a rare thing.  To blow the whistle on a piece that is a good deal older than a thousand years is a wonderful thing as well.  $380.US.

  AM650.   This preColumbian clay bird whistle originally came from Veracruz, a state that is full of music in every form.  It can be blown quite loudly into the end of the tail with the air hole at the bottom.  The piece is intact with the only damage being a shortened wing on one side and a little old chip on the crest above the eyes.  Those are old changes and not noticeable.  From front to back the whistle is a little over 3 1/4 inches long.  When sitting it is 1 7/8 inches tall.  It is quite a thrill to make the same sound that was made well over a thousand years ago.   $110.US.

  AM656.   This is a very nice clay bowl coming from the preColumbian culture of Morelos in the area of the pyramid el Tepozteco.  Perhaps pulque was once drunk from it.  The bowl is in excellent condition slightly over 2 3/4 inches across and 1 5/8 inches tall.  It is a rusty brown colour, has earth still encrusted on it and it sits nicely.  It is luck that it has never been broken.  It would be a wonderful container for a small group of old beads.   $115.US.

  AM659.   I bought three of this style of bag in Mexico - the other two are below.  I thought that they were all interesting and made by hand and sold by a small distributor to very few shops.  I imagine another one would be pretty difficult to come across.  This bag features images of Frida Kahlo, a photographic portrait in front and a focus on her eyes in the back.  The images are much more attractive in real life - it was difficult to take pics avoiding glare from light in the room.  The bags snap shut in the front.  On the back they have a flap which covers a pocket where you can slip some pieces of paper or credit cards...  The bag, when closed is 8 1/2 inches tall, 6 3/4 inches wide, and slightly over 1 1/2 inches thick.  This is a small bag but fine for a wallet, with sunglasses and a phone, or perhaps a paperback novel.  The webbed strap is 3/4 inch wide and can be shortened to comfort.  When fully extended the strap is about 50 inches long.    $35.US.

  AM660.   The size of this bag, and length of strap is the same as the one above.  This features Che Guevarra.    $35.US.

  AM661.   The size of this bag and length of strap are described in AM659 above.  This one features el Santo, a famous luchador in Mexico.    $35.US.

  AM662.   This is a very wonderful true silk rebozo from Santa Maria del Rio in the state of San Luis Potosi.  This famous variation is called a "caramelo" and truly looks and glows like caramels do.  Coffee and caramels, or cajeta.  There is a thoughtful and memorable book names "Caramelo" written by Sandra Cisneros.  The book follows the growth and reflections of a Hispanic girl who has inherited the rebozo caramelo from her great-grandmother.  I highly recommend reading it for a great insight into youth approaching adulthood, family relationships, and the impact of family history and traditions...

  AM664.   Carved coconut shell bowl 4 inches across, 1 3/4 inches tall.   $15.US.

  AM665.   Carved coconut shell bowl 2 3/4 by 3 3/4 inches across, 1 1/2 inches tall.   $15.US.

  AM666.   Silver tourist earrings from Mexico, dating from the fifties or sixties.  Zapatos y sombreros - shoes and hats...  they are very charming and have wires in the back that lock closed.  They swing nicely when you walk.  1 3/4 inches tall.   $38.US.

  AM667.   I turned these Spanish 2 Reale coins into earrings by adding blue titanium earwires.  They had been holed years ago, most likely to use in necklaces in southern Mexico or Guatemala.  The coins are silver, and slightly under 1 1/8 inches across.  One coin was minted in 1773 and the other in 1776.  $55.US.

  AM668.   There are just over 16 inches of beads here, fine for putting a necklace together or dividing up for other projects.  These preColumbian beads came from a farmer's field in the State of Guerrero not far from the Taxco area and are made of a very hard stone - they would have taken a long time to shape and drill.  Some of the beads are still similar to their original shapes as stones.  The tubular beads are 1 1/4 inches long.  It is quite a heavy strand of the type that Frida Kahlo wore at times.  Delicacy did not always suit her.   $300.US.   (sold)

  AM670.   This is a rather wonderful necklace with an elegant man standing at the center.  He has double sided holes at the back and had a code number written on him (6550) as he had been part of a serious collection which was disbanded ten or so years ago.  He is 2 inches tall, made of a dark green flecky stone, has his hair-line or hat defined, a line across his face for a mouth, a belt, a line across the bottom of his tunic and he has his legs and arms well defined.    The necklace is 17 1/2 inches long, made of more delicate preColumbian stone beads graduating nicely to the end.  The necklace is closed with a sterling silver clasp of a pair of hands, made in Oaxaca.   $500.US.

  AM671.   Although I have earrings from Oaxaca, Mexico for sale in my "Mexico" pages, I have listed these here as they are vintage.   These are very traditional and similar to earrings one or two centuries old that you might see in museums.  The same beautiful, complicated styles have remained popular.  Every bit of work in these earrings is done by hand, each piece of silver cut out, hammered, shaped, each part hinged or soldered to another, with the pearls woven into the silver.  It is a huge amount of work with a beautiful and graceful result.  These earrings actually remind me of a view of a woman, with her head studded with pale pink pearls, her shoulders pearled over curved arms and a wide skirt below...  Stamped on the back is:  MC 44, Mex 925.  The earrings are 3 1/8 inches tall.   $195.US.

  AM525.   San Judas Tadeo is a saint who assists in the almost impossible.  Walking in Mexico City on the 28th day of a month I saw many people, lots of them youthful, wearing t-shirts or carrying statues of San Judas.  I stopped and asked if there was a festival - no festival, but a day of blessings from San Judas.  In Mexico City there is a shrine at San Hipolito, near metro Hidalgo, in the Centro.  I bought these two necklaces there as I found them enchanting.  The plaque in the front is 4 1/4 inches tall including fringes.  The necklace part is 26 inches long.   $15.US/each necklace.   (#1 is sold)

  AM526.   I bought a couple of these woven images of San Judas Tadeo.  They are 4 1/2 inches tall, and $8.US./each.

  AM527.  These are sterling silver pins from Mexico - with Aztec style illustrations.   Pin #1 is 1 1/2 inches square and has the circular Aztec calendar on it.  It also has a loop on the back so that it can be worn as a pendant.   $45.US.   Pins #2 - this pair of pins is the same size and shape 1 1/5 inches tall but both have different illustrations on them.  They look terrific worn together.  The decorative part is on a sheet of silver that stands a little above the background sheet of silver so it has a nice raised appearance.   $75.US/the pair.   (pair of pins #2 are sold)

- I have just acquired a number of strands of pre Columbian spondylus shell beads coming out of Peru.  Each strand/necklace is very unique, strung by a Peruvian who has been doing this since childhood.  (though strung on fishing line - they would be best restrung onto a cloth cord)

  AM528.   There are three strands of beads here, each intriguing.  Strand #1 has a pottery pendant which has a face on it - you can see the sturdy nose and the fat lower lip.  The ear broke off one side many years ago.  The head is large and the legs are small and bellow the mouth is a row of holes which I think might indicate a necklace - it is a very typical image.  The beads include spondylus in a beautiful rich colour, and genuine Nuevo Cadiz blue glass beads.  The necklace is 17 inches long plus pendant.   $235.US.   Necklace #2 also has a small figure as the pendant.  He is a little more clear in real life than on the pendant and the beads that suspend him have the image of being arms.  The necklace of shell & spondylus is 17 1/2 inches long and the little man is 1 inch tall.   $235.US.   Necklace #3 has wonderful bright spondylus for its beads, in that great Peruvian colour.  The beads measure 18 inches in length with a 1 1/8 inch tall stone pendant.  I love the way that the orange beads fit into it.   $235.US.   (#1 & #3 are sold)

  AM529.   I am uncertain as to what these shell amulets represent - some research needs to be done.  They certainly look great though winding around the 23 inch long necklace.  The amulets are a little over 1/2 inch in length and a number of them have lines across them making them look like jars to me.  The central pendant has old chips on it but that does not detract from its interest.  It simply shows its history.  The piece is 1 1/4 by 3/4 inches rectangular.  This is a very unusual and memorable necklace.   $485.US.

  AM531.   This strand is very unusual as the grey beads are pyrite.  Because pyrite is essentially metal/iron the 22 inch long strand has an unusually heavy weight to it.  I am told that they can be polished up, but have not tried and do like them exactly how they look now.  The metal grey is an attractive contrast with the colours of the shell.   $260.US.

  AM532.   There are two very different strands of beads here.  Necklace #1 definitely needs to be restrung as it is fishing line without a clasp.  The beads are over 22 inches long and attractive sturdy flat rectangles.  They had been buried and show the signs of time underground.  The colour is a good rich deep orange, the pride of Peru.  The pendant on this strand is a bird and the wonderful thing about this clay bird, is that it is a whistle and you can blow a sharp loud sound on it.  The tail has an old chip on it but it still looks natural and good - it does not detract.   $325.US.   Strand #2 is that beautiful rich, deep orange (sometimes reaching a warm red) colour of spondylus from Peru.  The necklace is 19 inches long and the central pendant is 1 1/4 inches long.  The longest shell bead is just over 1 1/4 inches.  The colour is just amazing.   $255.US.   (#2 is sold)

  AM533.   The discs on this necklace sit very nicely when worn.  The largest one is stone and just under 1 inch in diameter.  The largest shell one is 3/4 inch in diameter.  The entire strand is 20 inches long and again, beautiful rich orange spondylus shell.   $225.US.

  AM534.   There are two strands here with beads very similar to the ones that Robert Liu shows on page 138 of "Collectible Beads".   Necklace #1 is 27 inches long.  I love the creamy feeling (and colour) of very old shell beads.  The way that they have been worn and smoothed gives them a great finish.  There is a nice variety of beads here and among them you can see the signs of time - the enlarged holes from string wearing against them, the shapes of the beads altered by others having rubbed against them for years, and marks left on the beads hundreds of years ago.  Quite wonderful.   $385.US.   Necklace #2 is ready to wear though I am always happier myself if cotton/silk or polyester cord is used rather than fishing line.  The long beads are nicely doubled up and then strands passing through single sputnik shaped beads.   There is a little more than 20 inches of beads which sit very nicely.  The bone beads have that softness and smoothness that comes with age and wear.   $385.US.   (#2 is sold)

  AM535.   There are two strands of beads here, each with nice flat shell slices for a bit of drama.  They look great when worn.  Necklace #1 has 22 inches of shell and spondylus beads with pendants all around.  The central pendant is 2 inches tall, smooth on one side and textured on the other.  The preColumbian aesthetic was always interesting and attractive.  The colours have a very natural sense to them and look great against the skin.   $395.US.   Necklace #2 is a heavier variation.  The beads going around are sturdier with them going around just under 20 inches.  The side pendants are closer together and the central pendant is 2 3/8 inches tall.  Again the colours are creamy variations of brown, orange, pinkish - looking great against the skin.  This should be restrung - one of the brick coloured beads has been improperly strung and sits sideways, and too much of the fishing line shows at the back.  A nice cord would work perfectly and would not take long to do...  $450.US.

  AM545.   This is a pale grey preColumbian stone necklace from Tlaxcala.  There is a lot of texture to the 20 inches of beads.  The beads have not been washed and they could use a soaking as they have been buried for hundreds of years.   $220.US.

  AM549.   These three pieces are from Puebla.  The first two are not pierced but used to hold or to display.   #1 is 2 7/8 inches tall and slightly curved outwards.  The back has a crust on it from years gone by.  You can distinguish the line between the legs and barely see where the mouth is - all has been very worn over time.   $145.US.   #2 is quite 3-dimensional and 2 1/4 inches tall.  All of the lines are quite clear with most of the wear occuring at the forehead and feet.  It is a mottled pale green and very attractive.   $165.US.   #3 is 2 3/8 inches tall and has a stringing hole at the top.  You can see a little dent where it is in the photo, so it can be hung as a pendant.  It is quite plain with spread legs, a straight mouth and clear ears.   $145.US.

  AM553.   Both of these pendants are made of a very hard black stone.  Pendant #1 is quite curious making me think of the shape of a dog style of animal.  The shaping of the eyes points towards what appears to be the snout.  At the end of the snout (you can almost see on the photo) is a circular indentation which I imagine is the mouth.  This had a hole for hanging but it has worn through so this is a piece working best for display.  $50.US.   Pendant #2 is just over 1 1/4 inches tall with soft groovings (seen more clearly in real life) to indicate the eyes and the mouth.  It has a good hole for hanging with.   $75.US.   (#1 is sold)

  AM554.   The first piece here was once a head pendant carved of stone but the holes have worn through - they are clearly visible on the back.  It is a great piece for display though with a clear and simple face.  $30.US.   Pendant #2 is 1 inch tall stone pendant with a vibrant face.  The stringing hole goes straight through his forehead.   $45.US.   (#2 is sold)

  AM555.   These two carved stone pieces from Mexico have both been broken hundreds of years ago.  They are still attractive and interesting.  Piece #1 is an expressive face of black stone - 2 inches tall.  It was once a pendant but the top with the stringing hole is missing - the stone is just rought at the top.   $35.US.   Piece #2 is the top half of a body.  The face has been damaged with a rather crushed top of head and nose, and the piece has been broken roughly at the waist.  It still carries a long story with it.   $35.US.   (#1 is sold, #2 is available)

  AM559.   Beads and whorls.  #1 - $45.US.   #2 - $45.US.   #3 - $40.US.   #4 - $50.US.   #5 - $50.US.   #6 - $40.US.   #7 - $55.US.   (#1, #2, #3, #4 & #7 are sold)

  AM560.   Spindle whorls.   #1 - $75.US.   #2 -  $50.US.   #3 - $45.US.   #4 - $65.US.   #5 - $75.US.   #6 - $50.US.   (#3, #4 & #6 are sold)

  AM565.   Here are three heavy preColumbians pendants - each has one hole for suspension.  I don't know what #1 represents but it is an attractive oval with a carved line crossing it.  The hole is set to the side a little so it hangs on an angle which gives it a very creative and modern look.  It is rubbed to be very smooth so very nice to hold as well.   $85.US.   Pendant #2 is quite rough, pretty well like a rock with a stringing hole.   $35.US.   Pendant #3 is dark, smooth and black with a face carved into it by smooth lines crossing the stone.  The suspension hole is placed in the middle where the shape curves down a little.  It is heavy and very attractive.   $110.US.   (#1 is sold)

  AM568.   I love the good silver tokens from the past - the new ones are not at all as interesting.  This is a Virgin of Guadalupe token measuring 1 3/8 inches in diameter.  On one side is a typical 3-dimensional portrait of Guadalupe standing in the clouds.  Around her are the words "NON FECIT TALITER" and "OMNI NATIONI" with a rose next.  On the other side is a view of the basilica of Guadalupe in northern Mexico City.  Around the image of the plaza and the four main churches are the words "RECUERDO DE LA INAUGERACION DE LA PLAZA MONUMENTAL DE LA BASILICA DE GUADALUPE" and "1952 Mexico D.F."   Now there is a modern basilica as well with the image that is claimed to have been found by Juan Diego, now a saint hung in a hallway.  There are moving walkways like in an airport for people wanting to view the image - so everyone passes at one speed.  The token is  $45.US.

  AM572.  

  AM573.  

  AM584.   This is a light weight silver necklace with a Yalalag cross hanging from it.  This is delicate looking, and unusual.  The necklace part is 26 inches long and just slips over the head.  The cross pendant is 3 7/8 inches long from the top loop to the bottom.   $350.US.

  AM591.   This is a rather typical Peruvian tourist piece.  It has its charms though.  This is made from an unknown metal and is probably 30 or 40 years old.  The disc pendant is 3 inches across and the interesting chain is 15 1/2 inches long with a hook closure.   $40.US.  

  AM602.   This is an excellent and wearable stone statue of a man.  He has a nice curved back that must have been the original shape of the greenstone rock.  The stringing holes are at the back of the top of his head.  There are small holes about even with his elbows but one is worn through.  The second is still fine though.  His image is nicely traced into the stone.  The piece is just under 2 1/2 inches tall.   $160.US.

  AM603.   This is a very curious pendant.  It is made from a soft stone and has lost (during burial) most of its surface.  There are just a few small areas on the piece where you can see the darker original surface.  It has a slightly dusty surface now.  This is one of those strange pieces though, that has more than one image to it.  If you hold it in one way it looks like a bird with head, eyes, wings, and a tail.  In that case the stringing hole is just under its tail.  If you tip it and look straight at it while it is sitting on the stringing hole and tip of tail, it looks like a sitting man facing you.  The arms and face are clearly defined.  Perhaps there is another creature to see there as well - those are the two that are clear to me.  The piece is 2 1/2 inches at the longest and quite a collector's piece.   $185.US.

  AM607.   These earrings are antique in the traditional filigree style brought by the Spanish and Portuguese.  The Mexican (these are from Oaxaca) version has its own aesthetics.  The largest part of the earrings are 10K gold although the hanging wires for the pearls are white metal.  The pink glass stones are bright and contrast beautifully with the natural pearls.  They are very eye-catching.   $245.US.

  AM611.   This is a fat and simple greenstone mask from the State of Guerrero, Mexico.  It has the usual stringing hole at the back of the head.  For once it is actually big enough for a small cord to go through.  It is 1 7/16 inches tall and 1 1/8 inches wide.   $85.US.

  AM614.   The four PreColumbian pieces here all have good sized stringing holes - all are ready to string up and wear.  The first piece is like a leif, pale green and 1 inch tall.  $20.US.   Mask #2 is slightly over 1/2 inch tall with a very plain face.  $25.US.   Mask #3 is 1/2 inch tall - two eyes and a line across for a mouth.  $25.US.   Mask #4 is 1 inch tall.  It has two fat eyes and a bit of a smile.   $35.US.   (#1 is available, all of the rest are sold)

  AM574.   This is a group of pre Columbian/preHispanic beads all from the Tairona people of Colombia.  Strand #1 is 22 inches around and made mostly of shell.  14 of the larger beads are carnelian though, and the central bead is a curled up larva made of carnelian as well.   $245.US.   Strand #2   $245.US.   Strand #3 has 20 inches of beads going around plus a 1 1/8 inch long carnelian pendant in the center.The 8 largest beads on the strand are carnelian as well.   $245.US.   Strand #4   $245.US.   (#2 & #4 are sold)

AM305.   $125.US.

AM205.   This necklace is ready to wear.  The beads are tubes and discs made of shell originating in the Sinu culture of Columbia, dating from around 600 - 1600 AD.  Their colour is a mellow cream and their surfaces have been smoothed over the years.  The centerpiece is a small, heavily patinated, bronze face pendant measuring slightly over 1 inch long.  It is preColumbian again, but I can't identify exactly where it was made.  Perhaps some research would discover some similar pieces to compare it with.  The necklace will just slip over your head as it is 24 1/2 inches long.  It just ties shut at the back.   $275.US.

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