Like many other crafts, gold- and silversmithing were introduced to Yucatan, and specifically to Merida, by Spanish colonizers. However, the Maya knew and wore precious metal ornaments from other parts of Mesoamerica. There are no metal deposits in Yucatan and therefore gold- and silverwork were unknown to peninsular Maya. After the conquest, Spanish jewelers trained local craftspeople in an array of techniques, including the manufacture of religious objects, jewels, enamel pieces, gold-frosted objects, embossed and engraved metal, gem mounting and filigree.
While friars with metalwork skills concentrated on manufacturing religious objects, mestizo and Mayan craftsmen specialized in jewelry. Upon its introduction (possibly in the 19th century), filigree became the technique of choice for jewelry production in Yucatan.
More than a luxury, jewelry is yet another manifestation of the attachment of Yucatecans to their traditions and their appreciation of beauty as an integral part of local identity. However, jewelry is a craft almost exclusively practiced in Yucatan’s large cities and the number of goldsmiths is dwindling.
Source: Merida artesanal (Handcrafts in Merida)
Segunda edicion 2005.
City Council of Merida
