Estate Jewelry: Vintage 1950s mid-century modernist style sterling silver pin/pendant with matching earrings signed by the Tuscon AZ Ash Alley artist Alberto Contreras.
Provenance: same owner since 1955

Presented here is a mid-century modernist style sterling silver and turquoise pin/pendant and clip-on earring set. The items are precious metal hallmarked "sterling" for their silver content and they have the maker mark for Alberto Contreras that he used from 1949 to 1994. The fancy script AC is on the back of each earring and the pin/pendant. The pieces are in very good vintage condition showing patina from age. The turquoise nuggets are saw tooth bezel set and are in good condition without chips or scratches. The pin/pendant has a bail that allows you to ad the piece to a necklace. It is 1 1/2 inches in diameter and weighs 26 grams. The earrings are clip-on style and measure 1 inch in diameter. Each earring weighs 6 grams. The earrings are in good vintage condition with natural patina from age.

Alberto Contreras worked for Frank Patania Sr. in his Thunderbird shop, located among the Ash Alley artists in Tuscon AZ. Alberto was taught the art of jewelry making by Frank Patania Sr. from 1940 to 1949 then he opened his own Ash Alley shop in 1949.

This beautiful pin/pendant and earring set is a piece of American Southwest history. The pieces are timeless wearable art that will enhance a jewelry collection and add style to a wardrobe.