Animal Necklace Appraisal

Carved Jadeite Pendant Necklace with Animal Motifs

This exquisite item is a necklace featuring intricately carved jadeite elements strung together with an elaborately knotted cord. The primary color palette consists of a translucent light green for the jadeite components and a deeper, muted teal for the cordage. The main pendant, centrally suspended, appears to depict two stylized, perhaps mythical, creatures, possibly Foo dogs or lions, flanking a sphere or pearl-like object at the bottom. Their forms are organic and flowing, showcasing detailed carving work with some areas of transparency and others appearing more opaque, indicative of natural jadeite characteristics. Above the main pendant, a complex decorative knot in the same teal cord secures it to the necklace. The necklace chain itself is composed of woven or braided teal cord, interspersed with additional carved jadeite elements. On either side, approximately midway along the visible length, is a smooth, spherical jadeite bead. Further along, closer to what would be the ends of the necklace, are two smaller, carved animal figures, one resembling a pig or boar and the other possibly an elephant or another stylized animal, each carved with care and exhibiting the same translucent light green hue as the main pendant. The carvings display a good level of craftsmanship, with smoothed surfaces and rounded edges, suggesting careful handling and polishing. No obvious chips, cracks, or repairs are visible from the provided image, indicating good condition, though a closer inspection would be required to confirm minor wear or subtle imperfections. The stringing appears secure, and the knots are tight and consistent. The style suggests an East Asian origin, likely Chinese, and draws upon traditional motifs and knot-tying techniques. Judging by the material and craftsmanship, it could date from the mid-to-late 20th century or possibly earlier, depending on the specific characteristics of the jadeite and the carving style.