18K Pink Gold Twisted Rope Overlay Cross Pendant
Pendant (Religious / Latin Cross) · Pink to Rose Gold alloyed with copper to achieve the warm, reddish-pink hue visible in the metal.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness) with approximately 75% pure gold content. The rich color suggests a solid gold construction rather than plated.
Type
Pendant (Religious / Latin Cross)
Purity
18K (750 fineness) with approximately 75% pure gold content. The rich color suggests a solid gold construction rather than plated.
Gold Type
Pink to Rose Gold alloyed with copper to achieve the warm, reddish-pink hue visible in the metal.
Weight
3.5 to 5.5 grams based on the solid backplate and thickness of the rope overlay.
Description
An elegant Latin cross pendant featuring a polished pink gold base plate. The center is embellished with an intricate, raised double-rope twist that mimics the texture of cord, adding significant depth and geometric interest to the symbol.
Key Features
3D twisted rope overlay, tapered ends on the vertical bar, pink-gold alloy consistency, and integrated hand-soldered bail.
Color & Finish
Warm pinkish-rose hue with a satin-to-polished finish on the base and a high-relief textured finish on the rope details; visible patina in crevices.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Small hallmark visible on the bale loop, likely a French 'Eagle's Head' or an Italian '750' lozenge stamp based on style.
Dimensions Estimate
Height: 35-40mm (excluding bale), Width: 20-22mm, Thickness: 2mm. Small to medium-sized unisex pendant.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design relies entirely on the contrast between the flat gold plate and the raised twisted rope wire overlay.
Clasp & Closure
Fixed bail loop at the top designed to accommodate a fine chain (approx. 2-3mm wide).
Chain & Links
Flat-profile cross plate with applied double-strand twisted wire links soldered vertically and horizontally along the center.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision hand-soldering of fine twisted gold wires onto a stamped backplate; clean joins at the nexus of the cross; well-proportioned symmetry.
Authentication Indicators
Color consistency across edges and crevices; hallmark location on the bail; absence of base-metal 'bleeding' at friction points.
Origin & Maker
Likely French or Southern European origin based on the 'leboncoin' watermark and traditional pink-gold alloy preferences in those regions.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary with Mid-century influence; typical of high-quality European religious jewelry designs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970s-1990s based on the soldering technique and the specific shade of rose-gold alloy.
Cultural Significance
A traditional Christian symbol representing faith, frequently used as a gift for baptisms, confirmations, or as a daily protective talisman.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Minor surface scratches on the backplate and light oxidation/dirt buildup between the rope twists typical of wear.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. The value is primarily driven by the 18K gold melt value plus a 20-30% premium for the specialty rope construction.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft toothbrush and warm soapy water to remove buildup between the ropes. Avoid aggressive polishing cloths which may flatten the rope detail.
Similar Items
14K Yellow Gold Plain Cross, Greek Orthodox Filigree Cross, or Cartier style Trinity pendants using similar multi-tonal gold wire.
Interesting Facts
Pink gold was popularized in the 19th century as 'Russian Gold' because of its popularity with the Tsars, but it became a global staple for religious icons in the 20th century.