Victorian Era 14K Yellow Gold Scroll Engraved Cylinder Pendant
Pendant (Cylinder/Tube style) · Yellow Gold (Classic warm buttery tone)
Purity: Estimated 14K (58.5% gold content). The deep yellow hue suggests a traditional high-copper and silver alloy mix typical of the 19th century. Likely solid gold based on surface wear patterns, though testing is required.
Type
Pendant (Cylinder/Tube style)
Purity
Estimated 14K (58.5% gold content). The deep yellow hue suggests a traditional high-copper and silver alloy mix typical of the 19th century. Likely solid gold based on surface wear patterns, though testing is required.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic warm buttery tone)
Weight
Estimated 1.5 to 3.0 grams. The item appears to be made from a thin gauge sheet of gold, keeping it lightweight but rigid.
Description
A charming late-Victorian yellow gold pendant featuring a dual-component design. The piece is crowned with a horizontally oriented cylindrical bale, intricately hand-engraved with floral scroll motifs. Suspended from this is a rectangular gold plate with curved vertical edges, providing a sleek contrast to the ornate top. It represents the transition from heavy Victorian mourning jewelry to the lighter, more aesthetic styles of the late 1800s.
Key Features
Hand-engraved scrollwork on the bale; unique flat-plate drop design; high-relief decorative top contrasting with a minimalist bottom.
Color & Finish
Rich deep yellow with a satin-to-polished finish. Features a hand-engraved scroll/floral pattern on the top cylindrical bale with a smooth, slightly patinated drop plate showing minor oxidation in recessed areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in the image. Often found on the interior of the bale or the bottom edge of the plate. Common marks for this era would be '14K' or Victorian-era maker's initials.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 15mm in length and 8mm in width. The cylindrical bale diameter appears to be roughly 3-4mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible. The design relies entirely on the decorative metalwork and hand engraving on the top section.
Clasp & Closure
Integrated fixed bale. The cylindrical top section acts as the passage for a chain or cord; it does not feature a moving clasp.
Chain & Links
Not applicable (pendant only). The top is designed to slide onto a fine cable or curb chain.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-assembled. The plate is soldered to a hand-formed cylinder. Engraving shows slightly irregular depths, confirming it was done by a craftsman's graver tool rather than a machine.
Authentication Indicators
Color consistency across the piece; deep hand-engraving marks (rather than laser); soft edges consistent with decades of wear; lack of 'green' corrosion typical of plated brass.
Origin & Maker
Likely American or British origin. The lack of prominent visible assay marks suggests a private jeweler or an American maker of the late 19th century.
Era & Period
Victorian Era (circa 1837-1901). Identified by the scrollwork engraving style and the overall geometric yet ornate silhouette.
Age Estimate
Circa 1880-1900. The manufacturing technique of using a stamped/rolled plate soldered to an engraved tube is indicative of late Victorian mass-production jewelry.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the Victorian obsession with 'Sentimental Jewelry,' where individual pieces were often gifted to hold specific memories or be worn daily as a signature accessory.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good antique condition. There is visible surface scratching and light dings consistent with age. The bottom edge of the plate shows some minor unevenness/wear. Finish remains vibrant.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250. Higher end reflects collector interest in Victorian gold; lower end reflects the melt value (approx. $80-$110 based on $2,300/oz gold spot).
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft polishing cloth and mild warm soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they may aggravate original solder points. Store in a soft pouch to prevent the engraved areas from being flattened by harder items.
Similar Items
Victorian Watch Fobs, Art Nouveau 'Noodle' Pendants, or Edwardian Engraved Lockets. Differing primarily in their lack of hinged compartments.
Interesting Facts
Pendants of this shape were often used as 'fob' style decorations or for carrying tiny rolled scrolls of paper, though this specific piece appears to be purely decorative.