Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Florentine Finish Round Pendant/Locket with Turquoise Center
Pendant/Locket (Decorative Medallion Style) · Yellow Gold (High copper-to-silver ratio likely used to achieve the deep warm hue).
Purity: 18K (750 fineness) consisting of 75% pure gold. Appearance suggests a deep rich saturation consistent with higher karat European or Middle Eastern alloys.
Type
Pendant/Locket (Decorative Medallion Style)
Purity
18K (750 fineness) consisting of 75% pure gold. Appearance suggests a deep rich saturation consistent with higher karat European or Middle Eastern alloys.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High copper-to-silver ratio likely used to achieve the deep warm hue).
Weight
25 - 45 grams (appears substantial and slightly domed/hollow-core but thick-walled).
Description
An exquisite mid-century statement locket or pendant crafted in warm 18K gold. The face features a captivating sunburst Florentine finish that diffuses light, centered by a single vibrant turquoise stone. A meticulously detailed rope-twist border adds structural depth, while the ornate bail suggests it was designed as a centerpiece for a high-fashion ensemble.
Key Features
Hand-engraved Florentine texture radiating from center; oversized crown-style bail; high-relief twisted rope border.
Color & Finish
Rich buttery yellow with a circular Florentine hand-engraved texture radiating from the center; accented with a polished rope-twist border.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the primary image; would typically be found on the bail or the interior rim/clasp of the pendant compartment.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 40mm - 50mm in diameter (oversized statement piece).
Gemstones & Inlays
Single center-set Turquoise cabochon, approximately 2mm - 3mm, flush-set in the center; bail features possible bezel-set seed pearls or turquoise accents.
Clasp & Closure
Large decorative articulated bail with crown-style flourish, suggesting a heavy chain or velvet neck ribbon was intended.
Chain & Links
Decorative rope-twist link applied to the perimeter as a border; structural solder points appear clean and hidden.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional surface finishing using a hand-held graver; professional soldering of the thick rope-link frame; secure stone setting with a clean bezel.
Authentication Indicators
Color uniformity indicates solid gold rather than plating; oxidation in crevices is consistent with high-karat alloys; precise hand-engraving quality is a mark of luxury production.
Origin & Maker
Likely Italian or French origin (Florentine finish specialty); stylized crown-bail suggests a high-end boutique workshop or Mediterranean artisan.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Retro (1950s-1960s). The Florentine finish and rope-twist detailing are hallmarks of this era's bold gold aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965 based on the texturing technique and oversized medallion fashion trend.
Cultural Significance
Bold gold medallions were symbols of high status and femininity in post-war European and American fashion, moving away from the austerity of the 1940s.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Excellent. Minimal surface scratches; engraving remains crisp. Minor oxidation in the recesses of the rope border typical of age.
Value Estimate
Estimated $2,800 - $4,500 based on gold weight + 30-50% artisan/vintage premium.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if turquoise is porous; clean with a soft dry cloth. Store separately to preserve the delicate hand-engraved texture.
Similar Items
Van Cleef & Arpels 'Heritage' medallions or Buccellati textured gold pendants (though Buccellati is typically more lace-like).
Interesting Facts
The 'Florentine' finish was popularized by Italian goldsmiths in the 1950s to create a cloth-like shimmer on hard metal surfaces.