Bernadette Marquez works in the artistic medium of precious metals, with a main focus on sterling silver jewelry. A native New Mexican raised in Santa Fe, Marquez has always appreciated the craftsmanship and intricate detail of precious metals. Fine metalwork is an art form as old as the city itself, having been introduced by the Spanish some 400 years ago. While her work is rooted in these long-honored traditions, Marquez transforms the tradition, making it relevant for the taste of today’s sophisticated buyer. With a mindful approach to originality, Bernadette is at the forefront of contemporary jewelry design, using only the finest materials to create a statement with which to be adorned. Marquez also enjoys incorporating other elements into her jewelry, including collaborations with her husband, award-winning sculptor Arthur López, adding hand-painted or hand-carved and painted images that transform their pieces into wearable art. “My work celebrates the culture of my Hispanic heritage that I am so blessed and proud to be a part of,” Marquez says.

The necklace features a sterling silver bezel set square bamboo cabochon, hand-painted with an image of Mary. (The term Madonna, which comes from the Italian for “our lady,” is a title of respect for the Virgin Mary.) Sterling hand stamps surround the bezel frame on bamboo coral and silver beads with a hook clasp.