Vintage Mexican Sterling Lock Brooch
A rare, early Mexican brooch hallmarked from the 20th century with the original eagle mark. The brooch was made to imitate the lock on a door or gate, also known as an escutcheon. The Mexican War for Independence (1810-1821) shut all the silver mines down, as the Mexican people protected one of their greatest resources from Spain. Silver mining did not really produce any volume again until the late 1930's. The niello (blackened) sterling brooch measures 2 inches x 2 1/2 inches. A key attached with a silver chain fits in the keyhole. On the back of the brooch it is marked 925 Mexico Sterling. Clearly evident, this is a replacement clasp.
