24K Yellow Gold Chinese Dragon Jadeite Rectangular Pendant
Pendant (Medallion style) · Yellow Gold; deep saturated yellow color characteristic of high-purity gold without copper or silver alloy dominance.
Purity: 24K / 999 Fine Gold (99.9% pure gold content); indicative of 'Chuk Kam' high-purity jewelry standards.
Type
Pendant (Medallion style)
Purity
24K / 999 Fine Gold (99.9% pure gold content); indicative of 'Chuk Kam' high-purity jewelry standards.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold; deep saturated yellow color characteristic of high-purity gold without copper or silver alloy dominance.
Weight
Estimated 30 - 50 grams (approx. 1 - 1.6 troy oz); large dimensions and high-relief casting suggest a substantial weight.
Description
An imposing rectangular gold pendant featuring a high-relief traditional Chinese dragon weaving through clouds. The dragon is depicted chasing a green stone 'pearl' against a textured background. The frame consists of a precise Greek key pattern, and the piece is crowned with a decorative bail, symbolizing power, strength, and good fortune.
Key Features
3D high-relief sculptural detail; contrasting matte and polished textures; vibrant green stone inlay; traditional auspicious symbolism.
Color & Finish
Rich, buttery yellow; features a mix of high-polish highlights on scales and matte/sandblasted recessed areas for depth and contrast.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the image, but usually found on the back of the pendant or the interior of the bail as '999' or '足金' (pure gold).
Dimensions Estimate
Large/Oversized; approximately 60mm x 40mm x 5mm excluding the decorative bail.
Gemstones & Inlays
Single spherical green gemstone, likely Jadeite or Green Chalcedony, representing the dragon's pearl/orb; cabochon cut in a bezel setting.
Clasp & Closure
Fixed decorative ornate bail with a stylized heart/cloud motif; intended for use with a heavy silk cord or high-karat gold chain.
Chain & Links
N/A (Pendant only); features a Greek key (meander) border representing eternal life and longevity.
Craftsmanship Details
Highly detailed 3D electroforming or vacuum casting; precise scaling on the dragon body; clean solder points on the bail; excellent texture variance.
Authentication Indicators
Saturated yellow color consistent with 24K; traditional Chinese design motifs; precision in the meander border; red flag: check for 'gold-plated' base if the weight is suspiciously light.
Origin & Maker
likely Hong Kong or Mainland China; common to specialist makers like Chow Tai Fook, Lukfook, or Chow Sang Sang.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-present) with Traditional Chinese Influence; utilizes modern 3D hard-gold casting techniques.
Age Estimate
Modern production, likely manufactured within the last 10-15 years based on the precision of the 'hard gold' casting detail.
Cultural Significance
The dragon represents the Emperor and supreme power; such pendants are often gifted for significant birthdays, business success, or protection in the Lunar New Year.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition (Mint/Near Mint); minimal signs of wear; the high-karat gold is soft, yet the surface shows no significant scratches or dings.
Value Estimate
Highly dependent on spot price; estimated $2,500 - $4,500 USD based on current gold prices plus a 15-25% craftsmanship/retail premium.
Care & Maintenance
Extremely soft metal; store in a separate velvet pouch; clean only with a soft cloth and mild soapy water; avoid ultrasonic cleaners which may loosen the stone.
Similar Items
18K Gold Dragon Pendants (lighter, more durable alloy); Jade Carvings with Gold Inlay; Gold Bullion Bars with Dragon Lunar designs.
Interesting Facts
In Chinese mythology, the 'Dragon Pearl' held by the creature represents spiritual energy, wisdom, prosperity, and the power of the sun.