14K Yellow Gold Rearing Horse Equestrian Pendant
Pendant / Charm · Yellow Gold. The alloy likely contains silver and copper to provide strength and the classic warm golden hue seen in the image.
Purity: 14K (58.5% Pure Gold). This is a standard jewelry fineness popular in North America for its balance of gold content and durability.
Type
Pendant / Charm
Purity
14K (58.5% Pure Gold). This is a standard jewelry fineness popular in North America for its balance of gold content and durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The alloy likely contains silver and copper to provide strength and the classic warm golden hue seen in the image.
Weight
Estimated 2.5 - 4.5 grams. Appearance suggests a hollow or electroformed construction to maintain volume without excessive weight.
Description
A graceful 14K yellow gold pendant featuring a horse in a dynamic rearing pose. The piece showcases fine anatomical detail, from the muscular legs to the flowing mane and tail. Its high-shine finish provides an elegant contrast against the textured hair details, making it a perfect gift for equestrian enthusiasts or lovers of animal-themed fine jewelry.
Key Features
Dynamic rearing pose; dual-texture gold work (polished vs. textured); integrated bail; expressive facial features on the horse.
Color & Finish
Rich yellow gold with a high-polish finish on smooth surfaces and a textured, matte-effect finish on the mane and tail to simulate hair details.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the bail (the loop) or the underside of the belly. Expected stamps include '14K' or '585' and potentially a maker's mark or 'ITALY'.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 20mm in width and 25mm in height (including bail). This is a standard 'midi' size charm suitable for necklaces or heavy bracelets.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible. The piece relies entirely on sculptural gold work for its aesthetic appeal.
Clasp & Closure
An oval jump-ring bail is attached to the top of the horse. It requires a chain to thread through or a clasp to be added for a charm bracelet.
Chain & Links
Not applicable as this is a pendant, though the bail is designed to accommodate chains up to approximately 2.5mm in thickness.
Craftsmanship Details
Lost-wax casting method. The soldering of the jump ring to the body is clean, and the textural details on the mane show good die-striking or mold precision.
Authentication Indicators
The warm, consistent color and lack of base-metal 'bleeding' suggest solid 14K gold. The bail construction is typical of genuine gold casting rather than costume jewelry.
Origin & Maker
Likely Italian or American commercial manufacture. These figurative animal charms are frequently produced in Vicenza, Italy, for global export.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Late 20th Century. Equestrian motifs have been timeless, but the casting style and bail design suggest a production date from the 1980s to the present.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The condition and style of the textured 'brushed' mane are indicative of late 20th-century casting techniques.
Cultural Significance
Horses represent nobility and success across many cultures. In jewelry, they are often worn as talismans for strength or to signify a connection to the 'sport of kings'.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The surface shows minor micro-scratches consistent with light wear. No visible dents or collapse in the hollow structure.
Value Estimate
$200 - $350 USD. Value is based on current gold spot price plus a 40-60% premium for design and manufacturing labor.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Because it may be hollow, avoid ultrasonic cleaners if there are any tiny holes, as liquid can become trapped inside.
Similar Items
18K Gold Ferrari 'Prancing Horse' pendants; 9K Gold English hunting charms; vintage gold carousel horse pendants.
Interesting Facts
The 'Rearing Horse' is a symbol of power, spirit, and freedom. In jewelry, equestrian themes became status symbols in 19th-century England and remain a staple of luxury brands like Hermès.