Indian Silver Coin Necklace (Kasulaperu Style)

This is a contemporary silver necklace featuring a central triangular pendant composed of six small, overlapping repoussé-style coins. The coins appear to depict traditional Indian motifs, likely religious deities or Lakshmi figures, common in Kasulaperu or ‘Coin Garland’ jewelry. The piece is constructed with a flexible flat-link or snake-style chain that transitions into a rigid decorative bib section. This bib is embellished with multiple silver station spacers, some featuring gold-toned or brass granular accents, and small floral-shaped ‘raawa’ motifs. The metal has a bright white silver finish with localized dark oxidation in the recessed areas of the coins and spacers, which provides contrast and highlights the intricate textures. The clasp is a traditional ‘S’ hook with an adjustable links extender, suggesting modern manufacturing (likely late 20th or 21st century). The craftsmanship is characteristic of Indian ethnic jewelry, specifically from the Southern regions, blending traditional coin motifs with more streamlined, modern chain architecture. The condition appears to be excellent with no visible breaks or missing elements, showing only minor surface scratches and a light natural patina consistent with light wear.

Based on my visual examination of the provided images, this is a contemporary Indian-style silver necklace, drawing inspiration from the traditional South Indian 'Kasulaperu' or coin garland design. The piece features a central pendant cluster of repoussé coins, likely depicting Goddess Lakshmi, set against a modern flat-link chain with decorative oxidized spacers. The craftsmanship is competent but suggests volume production rather than artisanal, high-karat silversmithing. The bright white finish and specific wear patterns indicate this is likely sterling silver (925) or a slightly lower silver alloy (800-900), common in modern ethnic export jewelry, rather than antique tribal silver. The gold-toned accents appear to be a surface plating or brass overlay rather than solid gold, which keeps the intrinsic value tied primarily to the silver weight and aesthetic appeal. The condition appears excellent, with the clasp and links intact. The market for contemporary Indian ethnic silver is currently stable, driven by fashion utility rather than investment collectibility. Similar pieces retail in the $125-$200 range, while secondary market values (resale) hover lower. While attractive, this piece lacks the age, provenance, or heavy gauge characteristic of high-value antique tribal jewelry. Critically, unauthorized visual inspection limits my ability to hallmarks or test metal purity. To confirm the specific silver content (Sterling vs. German Silver/Alloy), an acid or XRF test would be required in person. Additionally, I cannot verify if the 'gold' accents are legitimate vermeil or base metal without physical testing. This valuation assumes the piece is at least 925 sterling silver.