gemstones

In celebration of life, this Day of the Dead skull serves as a reminder of the connection between the living and the dead. Mexican artisan Oscar Figueroa Escorcia, who works with a passion for carrying on Taxco traditions, crafts the skull pendant of sterling silver with elegant floral patterns. A quartet of natural turquoise, natural amber, amethyst, and cultured pearl dangle from the pendant of this necklace.

Faith and tradition merge in this festive jewelry set, inspired by the Day of the Dead's celebrations. Mexico's Alejandra Torres uses 18k gold-plated brass to create the necklace and earrings that compose the set, each decorated with crystal, lapis lazuli, reconstituted turquoise and amethyst gems for a magical aura. Classic Day of the Dead-themed charms complete the accessories, whereas polyester threads add a sparkling touch.

Add an ornate touch to your bracelet stack with this lavish Taxco silver cuff bracelet. Ezequiel Tapia handcrafts it from 925 sterling silver and embellishes it with two sculpted sugar skulls on each end. He finishes his design with a pair of bright reconstituted turquoise gems flanked by two small amethyst stones.

Ezequiel learned silversmithing from his father - a master Taxco jeweler. After studying mechanical engineering and running his own industrial maintenance company, Ezequiel decided to return to his hometown to continue working on his father's craft. His designs feature references to global cultures as well as traditional Mexican iconography.

Representing the transition between life and death, a stunning skull is crafted from sterling silver and given a combination of finishes. Mexican artisan Rosa Rojo designs this pendant necklace, featuring beads of purple agate and amethyst that dangle.

Her name is Catrina, an invention of artist Jose Guadalupe Posada. She is now the smiling hostess of many of Mexico's Day of the Dead celebrations. She appears on these sterling silver earrings made by Oscar Figueroa Escorcia of Taxco, herself wearing earrings of amethyst.