Rare Emilia Castillo Silver-Plated Malachite Jewelry Holder, Mexico, 1980s

Details

Description

An elegant and sculptural vintage jewelry holder designed and handcrafted in Taxco, Mexico by celebrated artist Emilia Castillo, internationally recognized … Read more An elegant and sculptural vintage jewelry holder designed and handcrafted in Taxco, Mexico by celebrated artist Emilia Castillo, internationally recognized for her refined metalwork and organic, nature-inspired forms.

This striking piece is constructed from solid brass, silver plated, and richly accented with crushed malachite inlaid leaves, each carefully shaped and set by hand. Adding movement and visual texture, the undersides of the leaves are adorned with dangling malachite stone chips, a hallmark detail seen in some of Castillo’s most decorative works from the 1980s.

The vertical stem is executed in a bamboo-inspired form, while the oval base features a hand-hammered texture, grounding the design with artisanal character and subtle reflectivity. The balanced, botanical silhouette allows the piece to function equally as a jewelry stand and as a standalone sculptural object.

The underside retains the original Taxco hallmark, reading: Emilia Castillo, Mexico M.R., Plateado, TO-85, confirming authenticity and period production. Works from this era are especially prized for their craftsmanship, sculptural presence, and use of semi-precious stone inlay.

Ideal for collectors of Taxco silver, decorative arts, and Mexican modern design, this piece also serves as a sophisticated accent for luxury interiors, whether displayed on a vanity, dresser, console, or curated shelf.

Details:
Origin: Taxco, Mexico
Designer: Emilia Castillo
Period: 1980s
Materials: Silver-plated brass, crushed malachite, malachite stone chips
Hallmark: Emilia Castillo, Mexico M.R., Plateado, TO-85

Measurements:
Height: 11 in
Width: 9.25 in
Depth: 4 in

Condition:
Good vintage condition with light wear consistent with age and handcrafted production. Natural variations in the malachite and silver plating enhance the character and authenticity of the piece.

A refined and highly collectible example of late 20th-century Taxco silver design—functional, sculptural, and unmistakably Emilia Castillo. See less