18K White Gold Polished Pedestal Offering Bowl
Decorative Vessel / Offering Bowl · White Gold; likely rhodium-plated to achieve the high-luster, cool silvery-white finish visible
Purity: 18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold alloyed with white metals like palladium or nickel
Type
Decorative Vessel / Offering Bowl
Purity
18K (750 fineness), approximately 75% pure gold alloyed with white metals like palladium or nickel
Gold Type
White Gold; likely rhodium-plated to achieve the high-luster, cool silvery-white finish visible
Weight
250 - 450 grams depending on wall thickness and whether the base is weighted
Description
A sophisticated white gold pedestal bowl featuring a shallow, wide basin atop a tapered conical base. The item displays a brilliant mirror-like reflectivity, characteristic of high-quality rhodium-plated white gold. The design bridges the gap between functional ecclesiastical service-ware and modern luxury home decor.
Key Features
Weighted conical base with horizontal machined ribbing, perfectly spherical interior basin, and seamless joint at the pedestal neck
Color & Finish
High-polish mirror finish with a cool, bright white tone; concentric linear textures on the pedestal base
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in photo; likely located on the underside of the base or inside the rim ('750' or '18K')
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of bowl: 4-5 inches; Height: 3-4 inches; Base diameter: 3 inches
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features a minimalist, metal-forward aesthetic focusing on surface reflection
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; stationary decorative vessel
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid pedestal construction
Craftsmanship Details
Spun or pressed bowl construction with a lathe-turned pedestal base; high-quality soldering at the join point with no visible overflow
Authentication Indicators
Color uniformity suggests professional plating; density seen in the rim thickness suggests a precious metal base rather than steel
Origin & Maker
Likely high-end European or Asian goldsmith (possibly Italian or Indian for ceremonial use)
Era & Period
Contemporary / Mid-Century Modern influence; focuses on geometric simplicity and polished planes
Age Estimate
Likely modern production, circa 1990s to present day
Cultural Significance
Commonly used as an 'Utharni' or offering bowl in various Eastern religious traditions, symbolizing purity and wealth
Condition Notes
Very Good; minor surface micro-scratches consistent with handling; no visible dents or deformation in the rim
Value Estimate
$15,000 - $28,000 USD based primarily on gold melt value plus a 20-30% premium for specialized hollowware fabrication
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft microfiber cloth; avoid abrasive polishes which can strip the rhodium plating; store in a felt-lined case
Similar Items
Sterling silver compote bowls (lighter color, prone to tarnish) or platinum offering vessels (significantly heavier and darker gray)
Interesting Facts
White gold was popularized in the 1920s as a substitute for platinum; large hollowware pieces in 18K white gold are exceptionally rare due to material cost