Mid-Century Modern Die-Struck Sunburst Pendant Charm
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm) · Unknown mass-market manufacturer; likely a jewelry component supplier or a souvenir scale brand such as Danecraft, Beau, or Coro.
Pattern: Generic Sunburst/Radiating Starburst pattern; common in the 1950s-1970s jewelry findings.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm)
Maker
Unknown mass-market manufacturer; likely a jewelry component supplier or a souvenir scale brand such as Danecraft, Beau, or Coro.
Material
Likely Silver Plate over base metal (Nickel or Copper alloy) or low-purity 'German Silver'. Note the copper-colored oxidation/wear on the rim, suggesting a thin silver wash over a brass/copper base.
Dimensions
Approx. 1.8 cm in diameter (0.7 inches); estimated weight 2-4 grams; standard charm size for a bracelet or small necklace.
Description
A circular vintage jewelry pendant featuring a textured sunburst reverse. The center points to a central axis with deep-set radiating lines that create a shimmering light-play effect. Its flat profile and integrated loop suggest it served as a charm or the backing to a cabochon-set front.
Key Features
Deeply recessed radial engine-turned effect; integrated suspension eyelet; aged patina showing base metal through silver-colored surface.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver Plate over base metal (Nickel or Copper alloy) or low-purity 'German Silver'. Note the copper-colored oxidation/wear on the rim, suggesting a thin silver wash over a brass/copper base.
Finish & Decoration
Machine-engraved or die-struck radial lines (sunburst effect); antiqued/oxidized finish in the grooves to emphasize the texture.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible on the reverse; would likely have been on a jump ring now missing, or is an unstamped silver-plated piece.
Construction Details
Die-struck or machine-stamped from a flat sheet; integral circular jump-ring loop soldered or stamped as part of the frame.
Functional Features
Single suspension loop at the 6 o'clock position (as oriented in photo) for attachment to a chain or jump ring.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; Small non-functional cast loop attachment for jewelry hanging.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial machine-grade; precise radial symmetry indicates mechanical die-striking rather than hand-chasing.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of 'Sterling' or '925' marks combined with visible copper-colored 'bleeding' at the edges confirms this is likely plated base metal rather than solid silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA or East Asia; mass-produced using industrial metal stamping techniques.
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Vintage (c. 1950-1975); consistent with the popularity of celestial and atomic-age starburst patterns.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s-1980s based on the texture, finish, and wear-through of the plating (brassing).
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of jewelry in the mid-20th century through mass production and silver-plating techniques.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; significant plating wear (brassing) around the outer rim; heavy oxidation in the grooves; missing the primary jump ring; minor surface abrasions.
Value Estimate
Minimal market value; $1 - $5 USD as a vintage jewelry finding or craft piece.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemical dips as they may remove the intentional oxidation in the grooves or strip remaining thin plating; clean with a soft damp cloth.
Similar Pieces
Sterling Silver Starburst Charms (would be hallmarked); Pewter casting (softer edges); Aluminum components (much lighter weight).
Interesting Facts
Items like this were often used as the 'blank' side of promotional charms or zodiac pendants during the charm bracelet craze of the 1960s.