22K Yellow Gold Filigree Sunburst Pendant/Brooch
Pendant/Religious Medal with convertible attachments (intended for necklace or sari pin) · Yellow Gold. The alloy likely contains small percentages of copper and silver to provide structural integrity while maintaining the rich, buttery yellow hue.
Purity: 22K (91.6% Pure Gold). Marked '22MB'. This is a high-purity alloy standard in South Asian and Middle Eastern jewelry.
Type
Pendant/Religious Medal with convertible attachments (intended for necklace or sari pin)
Purity
22K (91.6% Pure Gold). Marked '22MB'. This is a high-purity alloy standard in South Asian and Middle Eastern jewelry.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The alloy likely contains small percentages of copper and silver to provide structural integrity while maintaining the rich, buttery yellow hue.
Weight
Estimated 4.5 - 7.0 grams. The solid center plate adds mass, while the open-work filigree reduces the overal density for comfortable wear.
Description
A stunning example of high-karat artistry, this 22K yellow gold pendant features a central domed sunburst motif surrounded by a delicate halo of filigree loops. The rich color is indicative of 22K gold, prized for its luster. The reverse shows the practical construction of a traditional versatile ornament, meant to be worn near the heart or as a symbolic accent.
Key Features
The '22MB' hallmark is the primary identifier. The double bail system on the reverse is a unique functional feature for stability when worn on a chain.
Color & Finish
Deep, saturated high-karat yellow. The center is a smooth satin finish, while the outer filigree features high-polish twisted wire work for shimmering contrast.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Embossed rectangular stamp on the reverse reading '22MB'. '22' indicates 22-karat purity; 'MB' is likely the maker's mark or workshop identifier.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of approximately 25-30mm (roughly the size of a US Quarter). It is a standard size for a statement pendant or small brooch.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible on the reverse; the piece focuses on the intricate metalwork (filigree and granulation).
Clasp & Closure
Features two small wire loops (bails) on the reverse, designed to be threaded onto a chain or secured to a garment with a pin. There is no integrated mechanical clasp.
Chain & Links
N/A. The piece is a standalone pendant element. The border consists of wire-drawn filigree loops soldered to the central frame.
Craftsmanship Details
Hybrid construction. The center plate is likely stamped, while the outer filigree border is hand-applied using twisted wire techniques and precision soldering.
Authentication Indicators
The deep yellow color is consistent with 22K gold. The hallmark '22' matches the visual tone of the metal. Hand-soldered joints in the filigree are clean, indicating high-quality artisan work.
Origin & Maker
Likely India or Southeast Asia. The '22MB' stamp and filigree style are highly characteristic of Indian jewelry houses (often referred to as 'BIS 916' standard regions).
Era & Period
Contemporary with Traditional influence. The design utilizes ancient filigree techniques prevalent in Indian jewelry for centuries, but the stamping style suggests modern production (late 20th century to present).
Age Estimate
Circa 1990 - 2020. The clean, uniform stamping and modern wire-work precision suggest contemporary manufacturing.
Cultural Significance
In South Asian culture, gold is considered 'Shagun' (auspicious) and is often gifted during festivals like Diwali or at weddings as a store of wealth and a symbol of the goddess Lakshmi.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The hallmarks are crisp, and the filigree loops are intact without visible crushing. Minor surface scratches on the central plate, consistent with gentle use.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold weight (approx. 92% of spot price for gold content) plus a 15-25% artisan premium. Market value would fluctuate with daily gold spot prices.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm, mild soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the piece has fragile wirework. Store in a soft pouch to prevent the 22K gold (which is soft) from scratching.
Similar Items
Traditional Indian 'Chandbali' style pendants or PAMP Suisse gold jewelry. Can be compared to 21K Arabic gold pieces which have a slightly more orange-yellow hue.
Interesting Facts
22K gold is the standard for investment-grade jewelry in many Eastern cultures because it retains a higher resale value based on its gold content compared to 14K or 18K Western jewelry.