Ammolite and 14K Yellow Gold Tree of Life Circle Pendant
Pendant (Medallion style) · Yellow Gold (soft warm alloy with silver and copper)
Purity: 14K (58.5% gold content); the item appears to be solid gold based on the color and lack of base-metal wear, though no hallmark is visible in the provided image.
Type
Pendant (Medallion style)
Purity
14K (58.5% gold content); the item appears to be solid gold based on the color and lack of base-metal wear, though no hallmark is visible in the provided image.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (soft warm alloy with silver and copper)
Weight
3.5 - 5.0 grams (including the ammolite inlay/cabochon)
Description
An elegant circular pendant featuring the 'Tree of Life' archetype. The gold branches are set atop a vibrant piece of Ammolite, an rare organic gemstone fossil, which provides a shifting green and golden background that symbolizes growth and vitality. The piece is encased in a protective gold bezel.
Key Features
Triplex construction with a protective quartz or spinel cap over a thin layer of iridescent Ammolite shell, topped with a 14k gold filigree-style tree.
Color & Finish
Medium-toned yellow gold with a high-polish bezel and a smooth, rounded finish on the raised tree branches; natural iridescent green and yellow play-of-color from the inlay.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the primary image; typically located on the reverse side of the pendant or on the bale.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 18mm to 22mm in diameter (roughly the size of a U.S. nickel)
Gemstones & Inlays
Ammolite triplet or doublet; organic gemstone showing spectral green, yellow, and orange flash, cut as a flat cabochon behind a gold-overlay Tree of Life motif.
Clasp & Closure
Fixed circular jump ring/bale at the 12 o'clock position for chain attachment.
Chain & Links
N/A (Pendant only); designed for a delicate cable or box chain.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast gold overlay with polished surface treatments; the bezel is likely burnished over the stone for a secure, seamless fit.
Authentication Indicators
The play-of-color is characteristic of genuine Ammolite; the uniform color of the metal suggests Karat gold rather than plating; the jump ring shows professional soldering.
Origin & Maker
Likely Canadian or American; Ammolite is primarily sourced from the Bearpaw Formation in Alberta, Canada. Korite is a leading producer of this style.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern Era, likely 2010s-present) featuring New Age and Celtic-inspired design elements.
Age Estimate
Circa 2015-2024 based on the popularity of the Tree of Life theme and the precision of the laser-cut or cast gold overlay.
Cultural Significance
The Tree of Life is a universal symbol spanning many cultures, representing the interconnection of all life on the planet and the bridge between the heavens and the earth.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent; some minor surface micro-scratching on the gold bezel and jump ring consistent with light wear.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD retail (Value is split between gold weight, the rarity of the ammolite, and the artistic design).
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as ammolite is brittle; clean with a soft damp cloth and mild soap only. Store separately to avoid scratching the surface.
Similar Items
Sterling silver ammolite pendants (lower cost), 18k designer versions (higher cost), or abalone shell inlays which mimic the color but lack the value of genuine ammolite.
Interesting Facts
Ammolite is one of the few new organic gemstones introduced to the market in the last 50 years and is formed from the fossilized shells of extinct ammonites.