Gold-Plated Figural Lion Sculpture with Crystal and Stone Base
Objet d'Art / Decorative Figurine · Yellow Gold Tone (likely an electroplated finish over brass or pewter)
Purity: Gold-Plated (Unknown Base Metal). Item shows characteristics of costume jewelry or decorative gifts rather than solid gold. Estimated thickness is less than 0.5 microns.
Type
Objet d'Art / Decorative Figurine
Purity
Gold-Plated (Unknown Base Metal). Item shows characteristics of costume jewelry or decorative gifts rather than solid gold. Estimated thickness is less than 0.5 microns.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold Tone (likely an electroplated finish over brass or pewter)
Weight
Total weight approx. 150-250 grams including stone; gold content is negligible (milli-grams).
Description
A decorative paperweight or vanity item featuring two gold-toned lion heads flanking a large, faceted crystal prism. The entire assembly is mounted within a hollowed-out oval stone basin, possibly alabaster or onyx.
Key Features
The use of a coffin-cut or prismatic crystal held by figural lions and the inclusion of small rhinestone accents in the eyes.
Color & Finish
Bright, brassy yellow gold finish with a high-shine polish on the lion figures. The base has a matte, natural stone finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks or purity stamps (14K, 18K, 585, etc.). Absence of stamps on focal points suggests non-precious construction.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 3 inches in length and 2 inches in width. Fits within a standard palm size.
Gemstones & Inlays
Central faceted clear crystal (likely glass or lead crystal). Small yellow chatons or rhinestones are set into the lion heads' eyes.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. Fixed decorative object.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The lions are cast and mounted to the base.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast metal components with gold electroplating. The crystal is likely machine-cut and pressure-set or glued between the metal supports.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold: overly bright yellow color, lack of hallmarks on visible surfaces, and use of glued-in rhinestones instead of grain/prong settings.
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-produced decorative giftware; typical of brands like Swarovski or high-end gift shop imports (possibly Italy or East Asia).
Era & Period
Contemporary / Late 20th Century decorative style. Stylistic cues lean towards 1980s-1990s giftware.
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured between 1985 and 2005.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratized luxury movement where gold-toned home accents were used to signal status and classical taste at various price points.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible signs of wear on the gold plating near the edges. Some dust accumulation within the stone base. One small metal component appears detached.
Value Estimate
Primarily decorative value. Estimated at $20 - $50 USD based on aesthetic appeal; negligible melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use chemical cleaners or ultrasonic machines, as they will strip the plating and loosen the glued stones.
Similar Items
Swarovski crystal figurines (which use rhodium or gold plating) or Franklin Mint collector pieces. Higher-end versions would be 18K gold over silver (Vermeil).
Interesting Facts
Lion imagery in gold-toned giftware became highly popular in the 1980s as symbols of power and 'Regency' style home decor.