Modernist Silver and Black Onyx Jewelry Set

This jewelry set comprises a pendant necklace and matching drop earrings presented in a black textured gift box with a velvet-lined interior. The necklace features a fine-gauge silver-toned chain, likely sterling silver based on the high luster and construction style, supporting a unique spherical pendant. The pendant consists of a polished black gemstone bead, possibly onyx or obsidian, partially encased in an organic, openwork silver cage with a fluid, amorphous lattice pattern reminiscent of coral or mid-century modernist designs. The matching earrings are teardrop-shaped black stone dangles suspended from silver french hooks with bead accents. The materials appear to be high-quality natural stone and polished metal, exhibiting excellent craftsmanship in the casting of the pendant's cage. The condition is excellent with no visible tarnishing on the silver or chips in the stones, though minor surface scratches may be present upon microscopic inspection. The style is contemporary with vintage modernist influences, likely dating from the last 20 years. No visible hallmark is identifiable from the image, but the design suggests a boutique or artisan maker rather than mass-produced costume jewelry.

I have examined the digital representations of this modernist jewelry suite, composed of a cage-motif spherical pendant and coordinating teardrop earrings. The aesthetic suggests a 'Studio/Artisan' origin, blending mid-century organic textures with contemporary minimalist gemstone work. The primary value drivers are the craftsmanship of the amorphous openwork silver cage and the high-polish finish of the black onyx or obsidian elements. Visually, the set is in excellent condition with no visible chips, pitting, or significant oxidation. Market demand for unique, artisan-level sterling silver jewelry remains steady, particularly for sets featuring natural semi-precious stones. However, the absence of an identifiable hallmark (e.g., '925' or a registered maker's mark) in the provided imagery is a significant limiting factor, as it prevents the definitive attribution to a specific designer or confirmation of metal purity. Comparables for unsigned artisan silver suites range from $120 to $300, whereas pieces by known modernist designers could command significantly higher premiums. This appraisal is based strictly on visual characteristics. A definitive valuation would require an in-person physical inspection to perform an acid or XRF test to confirm the silver content (sterling .925 vs. base metal), a thermal conductivity test of the gemstones to differentiate between natural onyx and glass/resin simulants, and a microscopic search for hallmarks. Documentation of provenance or an original gallery receipt would further solidify and potentially increase the market value.