Vintage Peruvian Sterling Silver & Copper Llama Pendant

A stunning example of mid-century Peruvian craftsmanship — a large, mixed-metal Andean llama medallion of exceptional character, functioning equally as a statement brooch or a pendant necklace via its ingenious dual-attachment system. The design is bold and beautifully resolved: a central sterling silver llama figure surrounded by a hand-wrought silver wavy wreath border, set against a copper medallion base displaying a rich natural verdigris patina — the aged green of the copper providing a striking chromatic counterpoint to the luminous silver elements. At 27.9 grams and approximately 2.25 to 2.375 inches in diameter, this is a large, substantial piece with the weight and presence of a serious collector’s object. Hallmarked Peru 925, sourced from a private estate on the Central Coast of California, and sold without chain.

About Peruvian Silver & the Llama Motif

Peru has one of the oldest and richest metalworking traditions in the world, stretching back thousands of years to the great pre-Columbian civilizations of the Andes. Mid-century Peruvian artisan jewelry drew on this deep heritage while embracing the bimetallic aesthetic of sterling silver and copper — two metals whose contrasting warm and cool tones, and whose different rates of patination, create a visual richness that is entirely distinctive to the Andean tradition. The llama is among the most enduring symbols of Andean culture, a creature of extraordinary utility and grace that has sustained Andean communities for millennia and appears throughout the decorative arts of the region from pre-Columbian times to the present.

All silver pieces in our collection are offered in their natural, unpolished state — we believe that a silver patina is not a flaw to be corrected, but a mark of authenticity and age to be honored.

Details

• Origin: Peru
• Metals: Sterling silver (925) & copper
• Hallmark: Peru 925
• Motif: Central sterling silver llama with wavy silver wreath border
• Base: Copper with natural aged verdigris patina
• Construction: Hand-hammered reverse; dual-attachment system (safety pin clasp + hidden bail for chain)
• Weight: 27.9 grams
• Diameter: Approximately 2.25–2.375 inches
• Type: Brooch / pendant (dual function)
• Provenance: Private estate, Central Coast of California
• Note: Sold without chain

Condition

Excellent vintage condition. The silver retains a lovely natural shine while the copper base displays an authentic aged verdigris patina. The pin mechanism is firm and fully functional. Please review all high-resolution photos carefully as they form part of the condition description.

Comparable Market Value

$195 — based on current dealer pricing on 1stDibs, Ruby Lane, and Etsy for hallmarked vintage Peruvian sterling silver and copper llama brooches of comparable size and quality.