Two-Strand Bali Silver and Turquoise Fish Pendant Necklace

This is a contemporary two-strand beaded necklace featuring vibrant turquoise smooth round beads and handcrafted Balinese silver elements. The inner strand is accented with a central brushed sterling silver geometric rhomboid bead flanked by two cross-shaped silver spacer beads. The longer outer strand carries a substantial, stylized silver fish pendant characterized by detailed repoussé work representing scales, a textured tail, and a defined eye. The fish pendant exhibits a soft, matte satin finish typical of high-quality Balinese silverwork, which utilizes traditional granulation and chasing techniques. The turquoise beads display a consistent bright cyan-blue hue with very minimal matrix, suggesting they are likely stabilized to maintain color and structural integrity. The necklace is secured with a traditional lobster claw or toggle clasp, integrated with silver end caps. Measuring approximately 18-20 inches in length, the piece is in excellent condition with a light natural patina developing in the recessed areas of the silver, highlighting the decorative detail. There are no missing beads, cracks, or visible structural repairs. This piece represents artisanal Balinese jewelry design, likely dating from the late 20th to early 21st century.

I have virtually examined this two-strand Bali silver and turquoise fish pendant necklace. The piece exhibits characteristic hallmarks of high-quality Indonesian artisan craftsmanship, specifically the granulation and repoussé techniques associated with Celuk or Ubud silversmithing. The fish pendant serves as a significant focal point, displaying excellent textural contrast and a professional satin finish. The turquoise beads are of a desirable 'Sleeping Beauty' blue hue; while they appear stabilized—common for this type of jewelry to ensure durability—they show excellent uniformity and lack of significant matrix inclusion. From a market perspective, contemporary Balinese silver remains highly collectible. Comparable pieces by established distributors like Novica or independent Balinese artisans typically retail in the $400-$700 range depending on the total silver weight. The 'excellent' condition and the presence of handcrafted spacer beads elevate this above mass-produced 'Bali-style' alternatives. Value is primarily driven by the weight of the sterling silver and the aesthetic appeal of the stylized fish motif, which has high secondary market demand in the artisan jewelry sector. However, this appraisal is subject to physical verification. Without a hands-on inspection, I cannot confirm the silver purity (925 mark) or the specific treatment of the turquoise (dyed vs. stabilized). A full authentication would require a chemical acid test for silver content, a microscopic exam of the beads to check for dye concentration in surface cracks, and a physical weight measurement. Documentation regarding the specific artisan or workshop would further bolster the provenance and potential resale value.