14K Two-Tone Gold Crucifix Religious Pendant
Pendant (Religious Medal) · Two-Tone Gold featuring yellow gold borders and corpus with a white gold vertical center stripe
Purity: 14K (585 fineness, approximately 58.3% pure gold)
Type
Pendant (Religious Medal)
Purity
14K (585 fineness, approximately 58.3% pure gold)
Gold Type
Two-Tone Gold featuring yellow gold borders and corpus with a white gold vertical center stripe
Weight
Estimated between 1.5 and 3.5 grams based on visible proportions and solid stamped construction
Description
This charming religious pendant features a rectangular plaque in a distinctive two-tone gold design. A vertical band of white gold runs down the center, serving as a backdrop for a brilliantly faceted starburst engraving. Overlaying the center is a finely detailed, high-polish yellow gold corpus of Jesus Christ. The outer borders of the rectangular plate showcase a warm yellow gold with a fine brushed texture, creating a striking contrast of colors and finishes.
Key Features
Multi-tone gold composition, diamond-cut starburst halo engraving behind the crucifix, brushed background plate contrasting with a polished raised corpus
Color & Finish
Brushed or satin finish on the rectangular plate with a contrasting high-polish finish on the raised corpus and diamond-cut starburst rays
Hallmarks & Stamps
Standard purity stamp (likely 14K or 585) located on the reverse side or bail, though not directly visible in the presented angle
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 20mm to 25mm in height (including the jump ring) and 12mm to 15mm in width, standard petite to medium pendant size
Gemstones & Inlays
None, featuring metallic engraving and multi-tone gold layering instead of gemstones
Clasp & Closure
Includes an attached soldered oval jump ring/bail for chain suspension
Chain & Links
N/A for pendant, but utilizes a standard soldered oval jump ring bail
Craftsmanship Details
Manufactured using a combination of stamping for the base plate, precision diamond-cut engraving for the light-reflecting rays, and hand-assembly or soldering of the raised corpus and suspension bail
Authentication Indicators
Uniform color transitions, sharp diamond-cut facets reflecting light cleanly, and appropriate weight-to-size visual ratio, though an acid or XRF test is recommended for definitive verification
Origin & Maker
Likely of Italian or American commercial jewelry manufacture, common producers of standard two-tone religious medals
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century to Contemporary, exhibiting stylistic elements heavily popularized in the mid-century modern and 1970s religious jewelry boom
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s to 1990s production based on the machine-assisted diamond cutting and two-tone striping technique
Cultural Significance
Crucifix pendants are powerful symbols of Christian faith, redemption, and devotion, frequently given as traditional gifts for sacraments such as baptism, first communion, and confirmation
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good condition with minor surface micro-scratches consistent with light wear. The structural integrity of the bail and the raised corpus remains fully intact.
Value Estimate
Valued primarily for its gold melt value plus a modest design and retail premium, typically ranging from $100 to $250 depending on the exact weight and current spot price of gold
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft-bristled brush. Avoid harsh chemical dips, and store in a separate cloth pouch to prevent scratching the polished and brushed surfaces
Similar Items
Single-tone solid yellow gold crucifix pendants, Miraculous medals, or Saint Christopher medals of similar stamped and engraved construction
Interesting Facts
Religious pendants featuring the crucifix became massively popular in post-WWII jewelry markets, evolving from purely devotional items into fashionable everyday expressions of faith often worn on delicate chains