14K White Gold Cultured Pearl and Onyx Beaded Bracelet
Bracelet (Beaded/Cultured Pearl and Gemstone) · White Gold, likely rhodium-plated to enhance the bright, silvery-white reflective finish on the clasp and heart charm.
Purity: 14K (58.5% gold). The gold content is alloyed with nickel or palladium to achieve the white hue. A typical purity for American and European jewelry findings.
Type
Bracelet (Beaded/Cultured Pearl and Gemstone)
Purity
14K (58.5% gold). The gold content is alloyed with nickel or palladium to achieve the white hue. A typical purity for American and European jewelry findings.
Gold Type
White Gold, likely rhodium-plated to enhance the bright, silvery-white reflective finish on the clasp and heart charm.
Weight
Total weight 8-12 grams. The metal weight is negligible (less than 1 gram), as the mass is largely from the organic pearls and onyx beads.
Description
A classic monochromatic beaded bracelet featuring a striking high-contrast design. One half of the piece is composed of lustrous white cultured pearls, while the other half features polished black onyx beads. The piece is finished with a modest 14K white gold spring ring clasp and a charming heart-shaped metal tag, making it an ideal gift or everyday accessory.
Key Features
Symmetrical color blocking; petite bead sizing suitable for layering; heart-shaped accent charm; white gold hardware for hypoallergenic properties.
Color & Finish
High-polish silver-tone finish on the metal components. The white color is cool and bright, providing a sharp contrast to the black onyx and iridescent white pearls.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected '14K' or '585' stamp on the spring ring clasp or the jump ring of the heart-shaped charm. No visible maker's mark in the low-resolution image.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: Approximately 7 inches (Standard Women's). Bead size: Estimated 4mm to 5mm diameter. Heart charm: 8mm x 8mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
Alternating segments of white cultured freshwater pearls (semi-round to round, moderate luster) and polished black onyx beads (spherical).
Clasp & Closure
Small spring ring clasp with a secondary circular jump ring for closure. Includes a decorative heart-shaped dangle charm on the opposing end.
Chain & Links
Strung on a durable jewelry wire or silk thread. The beads are tightly packed without visible knots between them, common for contemporary beaded jewelry.
Craftsmanship Details
Simple assembly-line stringing. The use of a heart charm suggests a mid-tier commercial production level rather than high-end artisan workbench fabrication.
Authentication Indicators
The color of the hardware is consistent with white gold rather than sterling silver (which would show more oxidation). The luster of the pearls indicates organic origin rather than plastic.
Origin & Maker
Likely manufactured in China or Thailand, where the majority of freshwater pearl and gemstone bead jewelry is assembled for global distribution.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-present). The design is a classic 'yin-yang' color palette that remains consistently popular in mass-market and boutique jewelry.
Age Estimate
Likely produced within the last 10-15 years. The style and findings are consistent with modern department store or jewelry chain inventory.
Cultural Significance
Pearls are often associated with purity and June birthdays, while onyx is traditionally a stone of protection and grounding in various folk traditions.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The tension in the stringing appears tight. Surface of the pearls shows natural minor growth ripples. No signs of plating wear (brassing) on the clasp.
Value Estimate
Retail Replacement: $150 - $250. Resale/Melt Value: Very low ($15-$40) as the gold weight is nominal and the beads have low secondary market demand.
Care & Maintenance
Wipe with a soft damp cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage pearls and dissolve the stringing adhesive. Store flat to prevent the wire from stretching.
Similar Items
Sterling silver pearl/onyx bracelets (cheaper alternative), 18K yellow gold luxury versions from brands like Mikimoto, or synthetic bead versions found in costume jewelry.
Interesting Facts
Onyx and pearls are often used together in mourning jewelry traditionally, but in modern contexts, they represent balance and the classic black-tie aesthetic.