Gold Pendant with Chinese Character and Chain Appraisal
Category: Jewelry
Description
This item is a pendant and chain crafted from gold-colored metal. The pendant has a circular design with a serrated or petaled outer edge. The central portion of the pendant features a cut-out Chinese character, which appears to be '福' (F 00fa), meaning 'fortune' or 'blessing'. The area surrounding the character has a granulated texture, giving it a frosted or sandy appearance. The pendant is suspended from a delicate cable link chain. The overall design suggests an Asian influence, likely Chinese, and could represent a piece of cultural or symbolic jewelry. The metal has a bright yellow tone, consistent with gold, although the specific karat is not discernible from the image. The condition appears to be good with no significant visible wear or damage, although a closer inspection would be required to assess surface scratching or other minor imperfections. The craftsmanship appears to be of reasonable quality, with clean lines in the cut-out character and consistent granulation, although the piece does not appear to be high-end fine jewelry. Without hallmarks or maker's marks, the age and origin are difficult to pinpoint precisely from the image alone, but the style could be mid to late 20th century.
Appraisal Report
Based on my visual examination of the provided image, I have assessed this Gold Pendant with Chinese Character and Chain. Condition appears good, showing no significant damage, though minor surface scratches would need in-person inspection. The metal's bright yellow tone suggests gold, but without hallmarks or testing, karat cannot be verified; authenticity as gold is assumed for this appraisal but requires confirmation. The craftsmanship is reasonable for mass-produced jewelry. The design featuring the Chinese character '福' is symbolic and generally appeals to those with cultural ties or an interest in Asian motifs. Market conditions for pre-owned symbolic gold jewelry are currently moderate, with value heavily influenced by gold weight and purity. Comparable items of similar design and likely gold content often sell in a range reflecting their melt value plus a modest premium for design. Demand is niche but consistent. Rarity is low as this style is relatively common. The most significant factors impacting value are the metal's true precious metal content (konkakaraterenkat and purity), and the total weight of the piece, which cannot be determined from the image. Authenticity as solid gold, as well as age and origin, cannot be definitively verified from the image alone. An in-person examination is crucial to inspect hallmarks, assess weight accurately, perform precious metal testing (acid test or XRF), and conduct a more detailed condition assessment, including clasp functionality and chain integrity. Provenance documentation could also provide valuable information. Without these steps, this appraisal is based on the assumption of the item being gold of reasonable karat, and the value reflects this assumption discounted for the lack of definitive verification.
Appraisal Value
$150-250