Nepalese Repoussé Sterling Silver Medallion Pendant
Jewelry (Pendant/Medallion) · Artisanal Nepalese workshop; unbranded but marked with the country of origin. Nepal has a centuries-old tradition of expert silversmithing, particularly among the Newar craftsmen of the Kathmandu Valley.
Pattern: Traditional Himalayan Scroll and Leaf pattern; non-cataloged artisanal production.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Medallion)
Maker
Artisanal Nepalese workshop; unbranded but marked with the country of origin. Nepal has a centuries-old tradition of expert silversmithing, particularly among the Newar craftsmen of the Kathmandu Valley.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) indicated by the '925' stamp. Solid metal composition without base metal core.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 2.5–4.0 cm; weight likely between 8 and 15 grams based on the gauge of the silver sheet and size relative to the chain links.
Description
A beautiful example of Nepalese hand-wrought silver, this medallion features intricate repoussé scrollwork that ripples across the surface, catching the light against a darkened, oxidized background. The organic feel of the hand-hammered edges speaks to its artisanal origins in the Kathmandu Valley, making it a soulful piece for collectors of ethnic and travel-inspired jewelry.
Key Features
Hand-wrought 'NEPAL' stamp, standard '925' fineness mark, traditional Himalayan scroll motifs, and evidence of hand-tooling on both the obverse and reverse.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) indicated by the '925' stamp. Solid metal composition without base metal core.
Finish & Decoration
Hand-hammered repoussé and chasing. The surface features traditional Newari-style scrollwork and floral motifs with an oxidized (antiqued) finish to highlight the depth of the metalwork.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'NEPAL' in sans-serif block letters and '925' indicating sterling silver fineness. There are also hand-etched or stamped artisanal symbols/initials near the bail attachment.
Construction Details
Hand-raised and repoussé worked from the reverse side to create relief. The bail is hand-soldered to the main disk. It shows evidence of hand-tooling rather than die-striking.
Functional Features
Includes a fixed wire bail for suspension on a chain and a circular medallion form designed for decorative wear.
Handle & Grip Details
Simple wire-loop bail, soldered directly to the top center of the medallion. Shows moderate wear at the friction point with the chain.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality hand-work. The depth of the chasing indicates a skilled hand, and the symmetry—while not machine-perfect—is excellent for a manually produced item.
Authentication Indicators
The 'NEPAL' and '925' stamps are consistent with regional export standards. The non-uniformity of the scrollwork confirms it is hand-chased rather than a cast replica.
Origin & Manufacturing
Nepal, likely Kathmandu or Patan. These regions are world-reknowned for the 'Newar' style of repoussé metalwork used in both jewelry and religious icons.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (Post-1970). The specific Gothic-style block stamping for 'NEPAL' is typical of export jewelry from the 1980s and 90s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980–2000. The wear patterns on the bail and the style of the '925' stamp suggest it is a vintage export piece rather than modern mass production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the survival of ancient Newari metalworking techniques into the modern era, adapted from temple decorations into wearable art for the global market.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Light surface scratches and natural tarnish typical of age. The bail remains securely soldered, though it shows some thinning from chain friction. No deep dents or structural cracks.
Value Estimate
$40–$85 USD depending on total weight and the specific retail or auction venue.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a soft cloth and Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid chemical 'dips' which will remove the intentional oxidation in the recessed areas, flatting the design's visual depth.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Tibetan silver (which is frequently lower purity/white metal) or Bali 'Dots and Swirls' jewelry. Unlike mass-produced cast silver, this piece is hammered from a flat sheet.
Interesting Facts
Nepalese silversmiths are historically so skilled that they were frequently recruited by Tibetan nobility and Chinese emperors to create the finest metalwork in Asia.