
Art Deco Style Black Onyx and Marcasite Sterling Silver Pendant
This jewelry piece consists of a large, polished oval cabochon of black onyx, approximately 25-30mm in length. The onyx features a deep, opaque black hue with a high-gloss finish. It is mounted with a decorative sterling silver bail and cap ensemble. The bail transitions into an elegant, scrolling S-curve or spiral motif that rests atop the onyx surface. This silverwork is densely pavé-set with small, rose-cut pyrite stones, commonly known as marcasites, which provide a metallic, prismatic shimmer typical of the Art Deco revival style. A matching decorative silver cap is visible at the base of the stone, also appearing to be set with marcasite accents, indicating a through-drilled pin construction. The pendant is suspended from a contemporary silver-tone snake chain. In terms of condition, the onyx appears smooth with no visible surface fractures or chips. The silver displays a darkened patina in the recesses, which is intentional to highlight the marcasite settings. There are no immediately apparent missing stones, though such items from the mid-to-late 20th century often show minor wear on the facet edges of the marcasites. The craftsmanship suggests a commercial production of high quality, likely dating from the 1980s to the early 2000s, emulating earlier 1920s aesthetics.
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Estimated Value
$125.00 - $185.00
Basic Information
Category
Fine Jewelry / Necklaces & Pendants
Appraised On
January 16, 2026
Estimated Value
$125.00 - $185.00
Item Description
This jewelry piece consists of a large, polished oval cabochon of black onyx, approximately 25-30mm in length. The onyx features a deep, opaque black hue with a high-gloss finish. It is mounted with a decorative sterling silver bail and cap ensemble. The bail transitions into an elegant, scrolling S-curve or spiral motif that rests atop the onyx surface. This silverwork is densely pavé-set with small, rose-cut pyrite stones, commonly known as marcasites, which provide a metallic, prismatic shimmer typical of the Art Deco revival style. A matching decorative silver cap is visible at the base of the stone, also appearing to be set with marcasite accents, indicating a through-drilled pin construction. The pendant is suspended from a contemporary silver-tone snake chain. In terms of condition, the onyx appears smooth with no visible surface fractures or chips. The silver displays a darkened patina in the recesses, which is intentional to highlight the marcasite settings. There are no immediately apparent missing stones, though such items from the mid-to-late 20th century often show minor wear on the facet edges of the marcasites. The craftsmanship suggests a commercial production of high quality, likely dating from the 1980s to the early 2000s, emulating earlier 1920s aesthetics.
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