High-Purity 22K-24K Yellow Gold Filigree Thai Sukothai Belt
Belt (Waist Chain/Belt Buckle) · Yellow Gold (High-purity alloy with minimal copper/silver for maximum color saturation)
Purity: High purity, typically 22K (91.6%) to 24K (99.9%). The deep saturation suggests traditional Baht gold standards.
Type
Belt (Waist Chain/Belt Buckle)
Purity
High purity, typically 22K (91.6%) to 24K (99.9%). The deep saturation suggests traditional Baht gold standards.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High-purity alloy with minimal copper/silver for maximum color saturation)
Weight
Significant: 150g to 400g (approximately 10 to 25 Baht weight), as these are traditionally heavy, solid pieces.
Description
An exquisite example of Thai ceremonial gold work, this belt features an ornate central buckle adorned with floral motifs and three dangling fringe pendants. The entire body is a masterwork of filigree and granulation.
Key Features
Triple fringe 'tassel' pendants, intricate 'Pikun' (mimosa) flower motifs, and the characteristic deep yellow hue of Baht gold.
Color & Finish
Vivid deep yellow with a matte and high-shine contrast; features Sukothai-style sandblasted textures and wire filigree.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely located on the reverse of the buckle or the end links; typical Thai hallmarks include the shop name in Thai script and purity (96.5% or 99%).
Dimensions Estimate
Buckle approx 8-10cm wide; belt length 30-36 inches; width 3-4cm. Standard ceremonial fit.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; the piece relies on intricate 'Pikun' flower gold work and granulated bead accents.
Clasp & Closure
Large decorative box-and-tongue clasp integrated into the buckle, or a heavy S-hook connector on the reverse side.
Chain & Links
Complex hand-woven mesh or interlocking link system typical of Thai gold smithing; extremely flexible yet dense.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-fabricated filigree and granulation; complex soldering of hundreds of tiny gold components; exceptional symmetry in the central floral spray.
Authentication Indicators
Saturated yellow color unique to 96.5%+ purity; high-quality hand-soldered wire work; density and heft consistent with solid gold.
Origin & Maker
Thailand; specifically indicative of artisans in the Sukothai or Yaowarat (Bangkok) regions.
Era & Period
Contemporary production following Traditional Sukothai/Ayutthaya styles (Design roots dating 13th-15th century).
Age Estimate
Likely 20th to 21st century; the preservation and technique suggest a modern piece made using traditional methods.
Cultural Significance
Essential for traditional Thai wedding attire (Phra Ratcha Niyom) and classical dance costumes; represents high status and auspiciousness.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent; appears to have all pendants intact; minor surface oxidation typical of high-purity gold stored in humid climates.
Value Estimate
Substantial; primarily based on melt value of high-purity gold plus a 15-30% premium for the intensive labor-hours required for filigree.
Care & Maintenance
High purity gold is soft; handle with care to avoid bending filigree. Clean only with warm soapy water and a very soft brush.
Similar Items
Indian 22K Vadanam (waist belt), Malay Pending (belt buckle), or Cambodian silver-gold plated ceremonial belts.
Interesting Facts
In Thailand, gold is measured in 'Baht' (15.244 grams per Baht). These belts are iconic symbols of wealth and are often part of a bride's dowry.