22K Yellow Gold Indian Filigree Choker Necklace
Necklace (Choker / Galoband style) · High-karat Yellow Gold, likely alloyed with small amounts of copper and silver to maintain the characteristic deep saffron-yellow hue.
Purity: 22K (916 Fineness), containing 91.6% pure gold. This is the standard purity for high-quality traditional South Asian jewelry due to its rich color and durability.
Type
Necklace (Choker / Galoband style)
Purity
22K (916 Fineness), containing 91.6% pure gold. This is the standard purity for high-quality traditional South Asian jewelry due to its rich color and durability.
Gold Type
High-karat Yellow Gold, likely alloyed with small amounts of copper and silver to maintain the characteristic deep saffron-yellow hue.
Weight
Estimated between 25 to 45 grams. Traditional Indian chokers of this width are often semi-hollow or feature delicate filigree to manage weight while appearing substantial.
Description
A magnificent example of 22K gold artistry, this choker features a central heart-shaped pendant flanked by circular sun-disk motifs. The piece is adorned with 'Rawa' gold granules and meticulously hand-placed filigree wires, creating a lace-like effect that captures and reflects light brilliantly.
Key Features
Intricate heart-shaped central focal point, repetitive circular motifs, extensive use of granulation work, and high-purity 22K gold saturation.
Color & Finish
Vivid, saturated deep yellow with multiple finishes: high-polish milgrain beads, matte-textured filigree wires, and diamond-cut accents on the central heart-shaped motif.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) hallmark featuring the triangle logo, '916' purity mark, and potentially a jeweler's identification mark on the reverse or the S-hook clasp.
Dimensions Estimate
Estimated width of 20-30mm at the widest central point; designed to sit snugly against the neck (14-16 inches in circumference).
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; the aesthetic relies entirely on intricate 'Rawa' (beaded) work and delicate gold wire filigree techniques.
Clasp & Closure
Typically features a traditional adjustable gold thread (Zari) cord or an S-hook clasp; based on the structure, an adjustable cord is most likely for choker fitment.
Chain & Links
The base is a mesh or multi-row linked structure supporting an ornate facade of heart and floral-disk motifs, joined by micro-soldered jump rings.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional granulation (Rawa work) where every tiny bead is individually soldered. The symmetry of the heart and side disks indicates a master-level artisan's precision.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic 'saffron' hue of 22K gold; presence of micro-soldering; design language consistent with high-end Vedic or South Asian jewelry; density appeared high in tactile handling.
Origin & Maker
Likely India; crafted by a skilled 'Karigar' (artisan). Indian jewelry is world-renowned for this specific level of granular filigree work.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-present) but designed in a Traditional/Heritage South Asian style often referred to as Temple or Antique-style jewelry.
Age Estimate
Likely modern production (last 10-15 years) given the precision of the uniform beads and the overall crispness of the design.
Cultural Significance
Chokers of this style are quintessential parts of a 'Solah Shringar' (sixteen bridal adornments) in Indian weddings, symbolizing status, prosperity, and auspiciousness.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The filigree shows no signs of flattening or breakage, and the high-karat gold retains its original vibrance without significant tarnishing.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued by gold weight (Spot + 10-25% 'Making Charges'). At current market rates, the melt value is significant, with a premium for the labor-intensive hand-filigree.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as high-karat gold is soft. Clean with lukewarm soapy water and a very soft brush. Store flat in a velvet-lined box to prevent the filigree from catching or bending.
Similar Items
21K Arabic gold necklaces (often redder/copper-heavy) and 18K Western filigree (lighter yellow, harder alloy). Difference is in the specific 22K 'Deep Yellow' and density of granulation.
Interesting Facts
India is the world's largest consumer of gold for jewelry; 22K is preferred because it is considered both a wearable ornament and a liquid investment (Stree Dhan).