Pearl Pendant Appraisal
Category: Jewelry
Description
The item is a small pendant designed in a stylized teardrop or elongated oval shape, appearing to be cast metal, likely sterling silver based on its color and common use in jewelry of this style. The pendant measures approximately 1 to 1.5 centimeters in length and appears to be about half a centimeter wide at its widest point. It has an open framework design, enclosing a single, small, spherical bead which appears to be a pearl, potentially cultured given its size and relatively uniform shape. The pearl has a creamy white color with subtle iridescence. The metal setting has a polished finish with some visible patina or tarnish in the recesses, indicating its age. At the top of the pendant, there is a small soldered jump ring, allowing it to be attached to a chain or other finding. There are no immediately visible maker's marks, hallmarks, or signatures in the image provided due to its small size and resolution. The construction appears sturdy for its size, with the pearl securely set within the metal cage. The style suggests it could be from the mid to late 20th century, possibly dating from the 1950s through the 1980s, a period when simple pearl pendants were popular. The overall condition appears good with minor surface wear consistent with age and use. The pearl itself appears intact with no visible chips or scratches.
Appraisal Report
Upon visual examination of the provided image, this small pearl pendant appears to be crafted from a metal, likely sterling silver, in an open teardrop or oval design. It houses a single small, creamy white pearl. The potential silver setting shows minor patina, consistent with age, and the pearl appears intact without visible damage. Based on its design and likely material, it is characteristic of mass-produced jewelry from the mid to late 20th century. The size and uniform appearance of the pearl suggest it is cultured rather than natural. The primary value lies in the material and design as a small, wearable vintage piece. Market comparables for similar small sterling silver and cultured pearl pendants from this era typically list in the range of $30 to $70 depending on condition and retail venue (online platform, antique shop). While vintage, this style is not considered rare or highly sought after, leading to moderate demand. Limitations in this appraisal include the inability to definitively confirm the metal composition (e.g., sterling silver) or the pearl's origin (natural vs. cultured) without in-person examination, including potential testing like specific gravity or microscopic analysis. The absence of visible hallmarks also limits authentication of the maker or metal type. Provenance documentation would further enhance authentication. However, based solely on the visual evidence, the assessment provided is a reasonable estimate of market value.
Appraisal Value
$30-70