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Two examples of design number 046P by Stella Popowski for Los Castillo c. 1955.

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Designed by Stella Popowski for Los Castillo circa 1955. Sterling backs and findings, with brass front surrounding inlaid black onyx and turquoise. The inlay technique called 'onix negro' was made famous by Los Castillo and was invented by Chato Castillo. The larger measures 3.5" tall by 1-7/8" widest point. The smaller measures 1.75" tall by 1.25" widest. Both are marked "Onix Negro" and design "046P". The larger is also marked "Los Castillo Taxco" in a circle around the Eagle 15 mark, and also "Hecho en Mexico". I've seen the larger example a number of times both like here as a pendant, and also as a brooch, but this is the only time that I've seen the smaller version. I'm wondering if it was intended to be a charm on a bracelet perhaps? Interesting that the two pieces have the same design number. They are obviously related, but different enough to have their own numbers, I'd think.
January 31, 2026 at 3:02 PM