Antiqued 14K Yellow Gold Marcasite and Black Onyx Art Deco Style Pendant
Pendant (Art Deco Revival / Fashion) · Yellow Gold base with heavy dark patina/antiqued finish; alloy likely includes copper and silver for strength.
Purity: Likely 14K (585) or 10K (417) based on standard findings for this style; Gold content is 58.5% or 41.7% respectively. Visual inspection suggests potential gold-plated silver (vermeil) due to the heavy oxidation.
Type
Pendant (Art Deco Revival / Fashion)
Purity
Likely 14K (585) or 10K (417) based on standard findings for this style; Gold content is 58.5% or 41.7% respectively. Visual inspection suggests potential gold-plated silver (vermeil) due to the heavy oxidation.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold base with heavy dark patina/antiqued finish; alloy likely includes copper and silver for strength.
Weight
3.5 to 5.5 grams total weight, including gemstones and metal.
Description
An elegant Art Deco-inspired pendant featuring a deep black onyx cabochon encased in an intricate yellow gold filigree cage. The cage and heart-shaped bale are meticulously set with shimmering marcasite stones, finished with a dark patina to enhance its vintage character.
Key Features
Geometric 'stepped' cage design, milgrain edge detailing, heart-shaped bale, and the use of marcasite for a metallic sparkle.
Color & Finish
Antiqued or 'gunmetal' yellow gold finish; features milgrain texturing and high-relief oxidation for a vintage aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped on the reverse of the bale or the backplate. Expected marks: '14K', '585', or '925' if gold-clad, alongside a maker's mark (none visible in photo).
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 25mm in length (including bale) and 15mm in width; standard medium-petite pendant sizing.
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural or dyed Black Onyx (oval cabochon base) accented with pave-set Marcasite (iron pyrite) stones in a geometric cage setting.
Clasp & Closure
Heart-shaped fixed bale at the top, designed to slide onto a chain up to 2mm in diameter; missing a primary clasp as it is a pendant component.
Chain & Links
N/A; Item is a pendant. Structure features a cast cage frame with bead-work/milgrain borders.
Craftsmanship Details
Lost-wax casting with post-cast hand-setting of stones and decorative oxidation treatment. High level of detail in the milgrain borders.
Authentication Indicators
The deep, non-flaking patina and fine milgrain suggest quality metal, though the greyish tone on the settings is characteristic of silver-rich alloys or intentional antiquing for marcasite jewelry.
Origin & Maker
Likely manufactured in Thailand or Italy, common hubs for high-quality marcasite and gold/silver jewelry production.
Era & Period
Art Deco Revival (Late 20th Century, circa 1980s-1990s); utilizes the geometric symmetry and marcasite typical of the 1920s era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2005 based on the casting technique and the heart-motif bale design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the ongoing fascination with Art Deco geometry and the transition of gold from high-polish status symbols to 'moodier' artistic fashion pieces.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Significant oxidation is present (intentional), but some surface scratches are visible on the onyx. Marcasite stones appear intact. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
Resale value approximately $150 – $350 if solid 14K gold; significantly lower ($30-$60) if gold-plated silver. Value is primarily in design and craftsmanship.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use ultrasonic cleaners as it may loosen marcasite stones. Clean with a soft, slightly damp cloth only. Avoid chemicals and perfumes.
Similar Items
Sterling silver marcasite pendants (often confused), Victorian mourning jewelry (higher gold weight), and modern hematite jewelry.
Interesting Facts
Marcasite was used in jewelry for centuries as a more affordable, shimmering alternative to diamonds, particularly popular during the Victorian and Art Deco periods.