14K Yellow Gold Textured Lion Profile Pendant
Pendant (Figurative/Animal) · Yellow Gold; likely alloyed with copper and silver for durability and warm tone.
Purity: 14K / 585; 58.3% pure gold. Appears consistent with solid gold based on color, though textured back is common in cast commercial jewelry.
Type
Pendant (Figurative/Animal)
Purity
14K / 585; 58.3% pure gold. Appears consistent with solid gold based on color, though textured back is common in cast commercial jewelry.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold; likely alloyed with copper and silver for durability and warm tone.
Weight
3.5 to 5.5 grams based on profile and size; the reverse is recessed/hollowed to reduce weight and material cost.
Description
This 14K yellow gold pendant depicts a lion in a walking profile. The piece utilizes a distinct contrast between its polished silhouette and a deeply textured, sparkling interior surface that mimics a 'nugget' or diamond-cut effect. The reverse is hollowed out to maximize its footprint while maintaining a wearable weight, making it a bold statement piece without the excessive cost of a fully 3D solid figure.
Key Features
Walking lion silhouette, recessed textured background, oversized tapered bail, flat-back design.
Color & Finish
Rich yellow gold tone. Features a high-polish finish on the bail and a heavy sandblasted or 'nugget-style' texture on the body and recessed reverse.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps on the reverse; typical location would be on the bail or the flat portion of the tail. Expected '14K' or '585' marking for authenticity.
Dimensions Estimate
Width: 25-30mm (approx. 1 inch); Height: 15-20mm excluding bail. Standard medium sized pendant.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; the design relies entirely on monochromatic metal texture for visual interest.
Clasp & Closure
Tapered rabbit-ear bail; solid construction designed to slide onto chains up to 4mm in thickness.
Chain & Links
N/A (Pendant only); flat-back construction indicates it is designed to lay flat against the chest.
Craftsmanship Details
Lost-wax cast construction; the bail is soldered to the main body. The texture is integrated into the mold rather than hand-engraved, typical of commercial-grade high-volume production.
Authentication Indicators
Color uniformity is consistent with solid 14k; texture on reverse is a common weight-saving technique in genuine gold casting. Lack of visible stamps in the image requires physical verification of the bail.
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-produced in Italy or USA; standard commercial casting often found in retail jewelry chains.
Era & Period
Contemporary (post-1990s); style is typical of commercial hip-hop or animal-themed fashion jewelry prevalent in the late 20th and early 21st century.
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-2020; manufacturing shows modern centrifugal casting techniques and contemporary bail styling.
Cultural Significance
Often worn as a symbol of strength or zodiacal pride (Leo); carries historical weight as a 'king of the jungle' motif signifying leadership.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the high-polished edges show minor micro-scratching consistent with light wear. No structural deformation or thinning of the bail.
Value Estimate
Melt value approx. $150-$230 (depending on weight/spot price); Retail value $450-$650. Value is primarily in the gold content and standard manufacturing premium.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush to remove dirt from the textured recesses. Professional ultrasonic cleaning is safe as there are no stones.
Similar Items
2D cutout lion charms, fully 3D miniature lion statuette pendants, or 10K gold versions which would appear slightly paler and harder.
Interesting Facts
The lion has been a symbol of royalty, power, and courage in jewelry for over 5,000 years, dating back to ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt.