18K Egyptian Yellow Gold Cartouche Hieroglyphic Pendant
Pendant (Cartouche) · Yellow Gold with a rich, high-karat saturation characteristic of Middle Eastern and North African gold refining.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness) gold, containing 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals, typically a high-purity standard for fine Egyptian jewelry.
Type
Pendant (Cartouche)
Purity
18K (750 fineness) gold, containing 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals, typically a high-purity standard for fine Egyptian jewelry.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a rich, high-karat saturation characteristic of Middle Eastern and North African gold refining.
Weight
Estimated between 4.5 and 7.0 grams, depending on the thickness of the base plate and whether the hieroglyphs are solid or filigree-backed.
Description
An elegant and personalized piece of Egyptian heritage, this cartouche pendant features a vertical oval frame protecting a series of raised hieroglyphic characters. The name is spelled out using ancient symbols including the vulture, reed, and water ripples, set against a shimmering textured background. It serves as both a protective amulet and a sophisticated statement of identity.
Key Features
Raised 3D hieroglyphic symbols, the 'Shen' symbol at the base representing eternity, and the characteristic Egyptian high-karat yellow hue.
Color & Finish
Deep, warm sun-yellow color. Features a satin-finished textured backplate with high-polished raised hieroglyphic symbols and a polished outer frame.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically stamped with Egyptian assay marks on the bail or the flat base, often featuring the ibis or lotus mark and the Arabic numeral for 18 (١٨).
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 35mm to 40mm in length (excluding bail) and 10mm to 12mm in width; standard medium-size vertical pendant.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; the decorative appeal relies entirely on the bas-relief gold hieroglyphics representing a phonetic name.
Clasp & Closure
V-shaped tapered bail at the top, designed to accommodate a box or wheat chain up to 3mm in width.
Chain & Links
Solid flat-plate construction with a solder-reinforced raised border and a horizontal bar detail at the base representing the 'shen' ring.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast base with hand-applied or soldered raised characters; the border is neatly finished with a professional polish that catches the light well.
Authentication Indicators
Slightly matte 'frosted' background common in Cairo-made pieces; the specific v-shaped bail and the reddish-yellow hue typical of Egyptian 18k alloys.
Origin & Maker
Egypt; likely produced in the Khan el-Khalili bazaar district of Cairo by specialized goldsmiths for the tourist and export market.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern Egyptian production); stylistically Neo-Egyptian Revival, a genre popular as souvenirs and cultural heritage pieces since the 1970s.
Age Estimate
Produced within the last 20-30 years based on the crispness of the machine-assisted casting and modern bail style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of ancient history and modern jewelry-making; symbolizes protection, eternity, and a connection to the Nile civilization.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition; minimal surface scratches, no visible thinning of the bail, and all hieroglyphic details remain sharp and well-defined.
Value Estimate
Valued primarily on gold weight plus a 20-40% premium for craftsmanship; estimated retail replacement between $550 - $850 USD based on current spot prices.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to reach between the hieroglyphs. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the piece has any antiquing or blackened oxidation in the crevices.
Similar Items
Sterling silver cartouches (lighter and less valuable), 14K laser-engraved pendants (usually thinner/lighter), or 21K filigree cartouches (more delicate and distinct orange tint).
Interesting Facts
In Ancient Egypt, cartouches were originally reserved for Pharaohs to protect their names from evil spirits in the afterlife; today, they are the most popular form of personalized gold jewelry in the region.