This is a sterling silver burro (donkey) brooch from Taxco, Mexico, signed "J. Alvarez". This piece of jewelry is indicative of the renowned silver craftsmanship from Taxco, a town famous for its silver mines and skilled artisans. Origin and Maker: The brooch is a vintage piece made in Taxco, Mexico, by a silversmith named J. Alvarez. Alvarez is recognized among the many talented artisans who contributed to Taxco's reputation as a center for fine silverwork. Materials and Markings: It's made of sterling silver, confirmed by the "925" mark, which indicates 92.5% silver content. The back of the brooch is stamped with "J ALVAREZ / TAXCO MEX" in a circle, with "925" at the center and "STERLING" on the side. This J. Alvarez donkey or burro brooches is commonly dated to the 1940s, a period before the widespread adoption of the "eagle mark" by the Mexican government in 1948, which was used to guarantee the quality and authenticity of silver. Previously owned