Vintage Gold-Plated Egyptian Pharaoh King Tut Pendant with Curb Chain
Pendant and Chain Necklace, Figural Theme · Yellow Gold finish, classic warm tone characteristic of costume jewelry electroplating over a copper-alloy base
Purity: Gold-Plated / Base Metal, likely brass or bronze core with a thin gold electroplate layer containing minimal actual gold content percentage
Type
Pendant and Chain Necklace, Figural Theme
Purity
Gold-Plated / Base Metal, likely brass or bronze core with a thin gold electroplate layer containing minimal actual gold content percentage
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish, classic warm tone characteristic of costume jewelry electroplating over a copper-alloy base
Weight
Estimated lightweight at 15 to 25 grams total for pendant and chain, constructed with a hollow or stamped profile rather than solid precious metal
Description
An intriguing vintage-style pendant necklace featuring a detailed bas-relief profile of an Egyptian pharaoh, reminiscent of King Tutankhamun. The pendant hangs from a matching yellow-toned curb chain and exhibits traditional Egyptian motifs including the striped nemes headdress and broad ceremonial collar. The piece displays a charming vintage patina with warm tones and textured detailing on the headdress contrasting with the smoother facial features. While designed with the striking aesthetic of ancient Egyptian treasury art, it serves as a wonderful piece of vintage costume jewelry and historical revival memorabilia.
Key Features
Detailed three-dimensional molded pharaoh bust relief, contrasting satin and polished gold-tone finishes, classic Egyptian Revival iconography, and a matching link chain
Color & Finish
Warm yellow-gold tone with a satin and matte textured finish on the headdress panels, combined with a slightly burnished high polish on the face and elevated surfaces, showing aged patina and minor surface wear
Hallmarks & Stamps
No clear hallmarks or purity stamps are immediately visible on the exterior bail or pendant loop, suggesting mass-market fashion jewelry production rather than fine hallmark-regulated precious metal
Dimensions Estimate
Pendant height approximately 45mm, width approximately 30mm; chain length standard medium fit around 18-20 inches with a fine curb link width of approximately 2-3mm
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones or inlays present; features molded structural relief work and recessed textured areas to simulate the traditional nemes headdress and collar details of an Egyptian pharaoh
Clasp & Closure
Standard spring ring or small lobster claw clasp typical of costume jewelry chains, matching the yellow-gold tone finish of the necklace
Chain & Links
Standard machine-made curb or cable link chain showing uniform link construction, moderate flexibility, and a simple jump ring connecting directly to the pendant bail
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced via die-stripping or metal casting with manual finishing and texturing applied to the headdress panels; functional baseline jewelry construction standard for mid-century fashion accessories
Authentication Indicators
Absence of standard precious metal hallmarks (like 14K or 750), uniform bright yellow color tone with minor base metal show-through on edges, and lightweight feel indicate fashion jewelry rather than solid gold
Origin & Maker
Unidentified commercial manufacturer, likely produced in the United States or Europe during the mid-to-late 20th century costume jewelry boom
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century Revival, specifically inspired by the 1970s Tutankhamun exhibition craze and Egyptian Revival movements popularized throughout the 20th century
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s-1980s production based on the styling, construction methods, and typical wear patterns of mid-century fashion pendants
Cultural Significance
Reflects the enduring global fascination with ancient Egyptian history, mythology, and pharaonic art, translating ancient royal iconography into accessible everyday decorative accessories and fashion statements
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition with minor surface scuffs, light rubbing of the gold-plated finish on high-friction areas, and an aged patina. No structural breaks or missing components noted; graded as Very Good for vintage costume jewelry
Value Estimate
Estimated secondary market and collectible value ranges from $25 to $75 USD, based primarily on decorative appeal, vintage aesthetic, and collector demand for Egyptian Revival costume pieces rather than melt value
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft, dry microfiber cloth; avoid all liquid jewelry cleaners, chemical dips, ultrasonic baths, and abrasive polishing agents to prevent wearing away the thin gold-plated surface layer
Similar Items
Other Egyptian Revival novelty pendants, Art Deco scarf clips, vintage gold-tone Cleopatra profile medallions, and museum gift shop commemorative jewelry pieces
Interesting Facts
Egyptian Revival jewelry surged in popularity twice during the 20th century: first following the sensational 1922 discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb by Howard Carter, and again during the global museum tour of the Treasures of Tutankhamun exhibition in the 1970s