22K Yellow Gold Ottoman Tughra Reşat Coin Pendant
Religious/Traditional Coin Pendant with Figaro Chain · Yellow Gold (Traditional Alloy). The deep buttery hue indicates a high gold-to-copper/silver ratio common in Turkish jewelry.
Purity: 22K (91.6% gold content). The rich saturations of yellow suggest a high karat content typical of Middle Eastern jewelry, though the accompanying silver-toned chain is likely steel or sterling silver.
Type
Religious/Traditional Coin Pendant with Figaro Chain
Purity
22K (91.6% gold content). The rich saturations of yellow suggest a high karat content typical of Middle Eastern jewelry, though the accompanying silver-toned chain is likely steel or sterling silver.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Traditional Alloy). The deep buttery hue indicates a high gold-to-copper/silver ratio common in Turkish jewelry.
Weight
Pendant: 7.0 - 10.0 grams; Chain: 15.0 - 20.0 grams. Total gold value is concentrated in the pendant disc.
Description
An iconic piece of Turkish heritage, this pendant features the Tughra, the calligraphic monogram of the Ottoman Sultan, surrounded by a laurel wreath and stars. Rendered in high-karat 22K yellow gold, the pendant serves as both a store of value and a cultural badge. The contrasting silver-toned Figaro chain provides a rugged, modern context for this traditional medallion.
Key Features
Ottoman Tughra calligraphy, seven-star arc, textured laurel wreath, high-purity gold color, and large tapered bail.
Color & Finish
Deep, high-karat yellow gold. The pendant features a semi-matte background with polished raised relief (Tughra and stars). The bail shows signs of soft wear typical of high-purity gold.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps on the obverse face. Expected hallmarks would be on the bail or reverse side, likely marked '22K' or '916'. Turkish jewelry often uses small numeral stamps.
Dimensions Estimate
Pendant diameter: Approx 25-30mm. Chain width: Approx 5mm. Chain length: Visually appears to be a 20-22 inch Figaro style.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design relies entirely on the symbolic metal relief of the Tughra calligraphic monogram.
Clasp & Closure
Standard parrot/lobster claw clasp visible on the Figaro chain. The pendant is attached via a wide tapered bail.
Chain & Links
Figaro link chain (3 short circular links followed by 1 elongated oval link). The chain appears to be a different metal (possibly stainless steel or silver) due to the contrasting cool-grey tone.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast relief with post-casting polishing on the raised elements. The bail is hand-soldered to the jump ring. The Figaro chain is machine-made with high-polish finishing.
Authentication Indicators
The characteristic 'buttery' yellow color of 22K gold is present. The relief details are crisp, suggesting a quality casting or strike rather than a base-metal replica. Red flag: Color mismatch between pendant and chain suggests the chain should be tested for non-gold material.
Origin & Maker
Likely Turkish (Grand Bazaar style). This is a traditional 'Altın' jewelry piece popular in Turkey and the Middle East.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern production mimicking the late Ottoman Reşat (reign of Mehmed V) coinage style (1909-1918). Contemporary Turkish gold jewelry style.
Age Estimate
Likely 2000s to present. While the design is historical, the casting and bail assembly suggest modern jeweler production rather than a 100-year-old coin.
Cultural Significance
Represents Turkish national identity and Ottoman history. In Middle Eastern cultures, owning high-karat gold coins and medallions is a standard method of diversifying personal savings.
Condition Notes
Very Good. There are minor surface abrasions on the high-polish edges. The bail shows slight deformation from wear, which is common in soft 22K gold. No major dents or loss of detail.
Value Estimate
Melt value based on 22K spot price (approx. $800-$1,200 depending on final weight). As jewelry, it carries a 15-25% premium over spot price in retail environments.
Care & Maintenance
22K gold is very soft and prone to scratching. Clean only with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the chain is steel. Store separately to prevent the chain from scratching the soft gold face.
Similar Items
Krugerrand coin pendants, British Sovereign coin mounts, or 24K Egyptian hieroglyphic pendants.
Interesting Facts
The Tughra was a Sultan's signature, designed to be impossible to forge. Coin jewelry like this is a traditional gift in Turkish cultures for weddings and birthdays as a form of portable wealth.