22K Yellow Gold Southeast Asian Filigree Floral Pendant Brooch
Pendant/Brooch Jewelry · Yellow Gold. The item displays the characteristic high-saturation yellow hue of high-karat alloys, typical of investment-grade jewelry from regions like Indonesia, Malaysia, or Thailand.
Purity: 22K (916 Fineness). This purity contains 91.6% pure gold, mixed with small amounts of copper or silver to retain durability while maintaining the rich, deep yellow traditionally favored in Asian markets.
Type
Pendant/Brooch Jewelry
Purity
22K (916 Fineness). This purity contains 91.6% pure gold, mixed with small amounts of copper or silver to retain durability while maintaining the rich, deep yellow traditionally favored in Asian markets.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The item displays the characteristic high-saturation yellow hue of high-karat alloys, typical of investment-grade jewelry from regions like Indonesia, Malaysia, or Thailand.
Weight
Estimated between 15 to 25 grams. The intricate wirework suggests a substantial amount of gold despite the delicate appearance, likely created using solid 22K wire rather than hollow casting.
Description
An exquisite example of high-karat gold artistry, this pendant brooch features a central multi-layered floral rosette. Surrounding the center are intricate scrollwork frames and a delicate scalloped 'lace' border. Three fan-shaped articulated drops hang from the base, adding movement and a royal aesthetic characteristic of traditional bridal or ceremonial finery.
Key Features
Hand-twisted gold wire (filigree), layered 3D floral construction, and granulated bead accents at the centers of the wire loops.
Color & Finish
Rich, buttery yellow with a high-luster finish. The piece features a combination of polished wire surfaces and granular matte textures typical of traditional filigree (teluk berantai or similar styles).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the bail or the reverse of the center flower; expected marks include '916' or provincial maker marks. No marks are clearly visible in the provided top-down view.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximate width of 40-50mm. The central floral motif appears to be roughly 15mm in diameter, with the total drop length reaching approximately 60mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones present. All decorative elements are formed from gold wire and sheet, relying on the 'granulation' and 'openwork filigree' techniques to create light and shadow.
Clasp & Closure
Features a top suspension loop (jump ring) for a chain and likely a horizontal safety pin closure on the reverse for use as a brooch.
Chain & Links
The piece contains hanging fan-shaped ornamental link drops attached via jump rings. These move independently, creating a 'tinkling' or shimmering effect when worn.
Craftsmanship Details
Superb hand-assembled construction. The piece utilizes 'openwork' technique where no backplate is present, allowing light to pass through the fine web of gold wires, emphasizing its lace-like quality.
Authentication Indicators
The deep, vivid yellow color is a strong indicator of 22K+ purity. The presence of tiny solder points at the intersection of wires is consistent with genuine handmade filigree rather than cheap molded imitations.
Origin & Maker
Likely Southeast Asia, specifically Indonesia (Kendari) or Malaysia. These regions are world-renowned for 'Filigree' work involving the soldering of fine gold threads.
Era & Period
Contemporary production following Traditional/Heritage designs. While the style is rooted in centuries-old Southeast Asian craftsmanship, the precision suggests modern workshop manufacturing from the late 20th to 21st century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990 - Present. The crispness of the wirework and the excellent condition of the gold suggest it is a relatively modern piece of heritage jewelry.
Cultural Significance
In many Southeast Asian cultures, such pieces are part of 'Mahar' (dowry) or heirloom collections, symbolizing wealth, status, and the preservation of traditional artistic techniques.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The wirework appears intact with no visible crushed elements or broken solder joints. The color is uniform without significant oxidation or tarnish (common in high-karat gold).
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold content (melt value) plus a 20-40% labor/craftsmanship premium. Total retail replacement value would likely be $1,800 - $2,500 USD depending on the exact weight and current gold spot price.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they can vibrate the delicate wire joints loose. Clean only with warm, mild soapy water and a very soft brush. Store in a rigid silk-lined box to prevent the wire from being crushed.
Similar Items
Indian 22K Rava work jewelry; Chinese 24K filigree enamel jewelry (typically without the enamel in this case); Portuguese silver-gilt filigree.
Interesting Facts
The art of filigree is so labor-intensive that a single piece like this can take a master craftsman several days to assemble by hand using tweezers and a blowtorch.