Black Onyx and Diamond Pendant in Yellow Gold

This is a small decorative jewelry pendant featuring a central oval-cut black gemstone, likely onyx or potentially a high-quality sapphire, set in a yellow metal mounting that appears to be gold (likely 10k or 14k based on common commercial jewelry standards). The central stone is held by multiple small prongs. Accenting the main stone are approximately four small, round-cut clear gemstones—likely diamonds or cubic zirconia—arranged in a floral or spray cluster pattern on the right side and top. The bale, which allows the piece to be suspended from a chain, is a simple curved loop of the same yellow metal. The craftsmanship suggests a late 20th-century aesthetic (1980s-1990s). The piece shows some light surface wear and minor oxidation consistent with age, but the stones appear securely set and the metal retains a bright finish. There are no visible maker's marks or hallmarks from this angle; these are likely located on the inside of the bale or the reverse side of the pendant. The overall size is diminutive, approximately 12-15mm in total length including the bale, intended for a fine-gauge chain. Its design is classic and feminine, demonstrating standard commercial jewelry quality.

Based on my visual examination of this oval black onyx and diamond accent pendant, I have determined it to be a classic piece of commercial fine jewelry, likely dating from the 1980s or 1990s. The central stone is an oval-cut black onyx, showing a high polish and secure prong settings. It is accented by four small round-cut stones, which I have assessed as commercial-grade diamonds (approximately 0.02-0.04 total carat weight) set in what appears to be 14k yellow gold. The condition is good, showing minor surface abrasions and light oxidation consistent with occasional wear. The market for this type of production jewelry remains stable but saturated. Comparables for small onyx pendants in 14k gold typically realize between $150 and $250 in a retail or secondary estate market, depending on the gold weight. Rarity is low, as these designs were mass-produced. Factors limiting the value include the diminutive size and the lack of a designer hallmark or unique provenance. Limitations: This appraisal is based solely on high-resolution imagery. Without physical inspection, I cannot definitively confirm the metal purity via acid testing or XRF, nor can I verify if the accent stones are natural diamonds or lab-created simulants like cubic zirconia or moissanite. To confirm these specifications and provide a definitive valuation, an in-person examination using a refractometer, a gold-testing kit, and a gemstone tester would be required. Any future authentication should also seek hallmarks on the reverse side or inside the bale to identify the manufacturer.