David Yurman Albion Pendant in Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold with Smoky Quartz
Pendant Necklace · Yellow Gold accents. The item features Yurman's signature mixed-metal look where 18K yellow gold typically frames the gemstone bezel or provides structural contrast.
Purity: 18K (750) accents. The primary structure is Sterling Silver (925). 18K gold consists of 75% pure gold alloyed with silver and copper for durability.
Type
Pendant Necklace
Purity
18K (750) accents. The primary structure is Sterling Silver (925). 18K gold consists of 75% pure gold alloyed with silver and copper for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold accents. The item features Yurman's signature mixed-metal look where 18K yellow gold typically frames the gemstone bezel or provides structural contrast.
Weight
Estimated total weight 8 - 12 grams. The gold component is a thin bezel or accent, likely weighing less than 1.5 grams of the total weight.
Description
A classic David Yurman Albion pendant featuring a rich, earthy Smoky Quartz stone center. Set in a cushion-shaped frame of sterling silver with the iconic cable texture, highlighted by a slender 18K yellow gold inner bezel. This piece embodies the effortless elegance of the Soho-founded brand.
Key Features
Signature 'Cable' texture on frame and bail; checkerboard Gemstone cut; mixed-metal 925/750 construction; cushion-shaped 'Albion' silhouette.
Color & Finish
Silver-white high polish on the cable-textured sterling silver; warm, rich yellow gold bezel frame. The silver features intentional oxidation (darkened crevices) to highlight the texture.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped 'D.Y.' or 'David Yurman', '925', and '750' on the reverse of the pendant or the interior of the bail. Purity marks indicate silver (925) and 18K gold (750).
Dimensions Estimate
Pendant: approx 11mm or 14mm (Albion size); Chain length: standard 16 or 18 inches; Chain width: approx 1.5mm - 2mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
Smoky Quartz; checkerboard cushion cut; estimated 3-7 carats depending on specific model size; bezel set within a cable-textured frame.
Clasp & Closure
Lobster claw clasp, typically featuring a small circular or oval engraved brand tag near the closure site.
Chain & Links
Sterling silver box chain or wheat chain, hand-assembled styling. The bail is an integrated 'pushed-through' style featuring the signature cable motif.
Craftsmanship Details
Lost-wax casting method followed by hand-finishing and stone setting; the 'cable' texture is integrated into the mold for consistent relief and depth.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font depth on '750' and '925' stamps; high-quality oxidation contrast; precision of the cable twisting; weight should feel substantial, not 'tinny' or light.
Origin & Maker
USA; David Yurman. A premier American jewelry house known for pioneering the 'mixed metal' trend and signature cable motif.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-present). The Albion collection was launched in 1995 and remains a staple of modern American luxury design.
Age Estimate
Produced within the last 15-20 years; style is currently in active production or recent archives.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Bridge Jewelry' movement—merging high-end fine materials with everyday wearability, becoming a status symbol of American suburban luxury.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Minor surface scratches on the metal (commensurate with light wear); gemstone facets appear crisp with no visible chips; minor oxidation visible in textured crevices.
Value Estimate
Resale value: $350 - $550 USD; Retail replacement: $900 - $1,200 USD. Value is heavily driven by brand prestige rather than raw gold/silver melt value ($15-$25 melt approx).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a silver polishing cloth on smooth surfaces; do not submerge in jewelry cleaner as it may remove the intentional oxidation; store in a soft pouch to prevent silver tarnishing.
Similar Items
John Hardy 'Classic Chain' pendants; Lagos 'Caviar' collection; Tiffany & Co. 'Sugar Stacks'. Alternatives differ primarily in the specific texture (dot vs. caviar vs. cable).
Interesting Facts
David Yurman was a sculptor and his wife Sybil was a painter; their artistic backgrounds merged to create the cable motif, inspired by the twisted strands of a bronze sculpture.