14K Yellow Gold Ingot Pendant with Wheat Chain
Jewelry (Necklace and Pendant) · Unidentified mass-market manufacturer; typical of retail jewelers like Zales or Kay Jewelers.
Pattern: Standard rectangular ingot form with Florentine-textured finish.
Type
Jewelry (Necklace and Pendant)
Maker
Unidentified mass-market manufacturer; typical of retail jewelers like Zales or Kay Jewelers.
Material
14 Karat Yellow Gold (58.5% pure gold). Not silver. The warm yellow hue and markings confirm gold composition.
Dimensions
Pendant is approx. 20mm x 10mm. Chain is approx. 18-20 inches. Estimated total weight 4.0 - 6.5 grams.
Description
A classic 14k gold necklace set featuring a rectangular ingot pendant with a distinctive Florentine finish. The pendant is suspended from a dense, braided-style wheat chain, providing a substantial aesthetic for daily wear.
Key Features
14K Fineness stamp; Florentine textured finish to hide scratches; modern lobster claw clasp; Wheat/Spiga chain design.
Material & Composition
14 Karat Yellow Gold (58.5% pure gold). Not silver. The warm yellow hue and markings confirm gold composition.
Finish & Decoration
Florentine/Cross-hatched textured surface on the pendant face. High-polish lobster claw clasp and bail. Modern utilitarian style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '14K' on the reverse bail of the pendant. Likely another 14K stamp on the lobster clasp tab (partially obscured).
Construction Details
Machine-stamped ingot pendant; machine-linked 'wheat' or Spiga style chain. Assembled with soldered jump rings.
Functional Features
Secure lobster claw clasp mechanism; fixed-loop bail for pendant hanging.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Jewelry item; features a standard lobster claw grip for opening the clasp.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-made quality; high consistency in links; standard industrial stamping for hallmark and texture.
Authentication Indicators
Clear '14K' stamp consistent with US/EU standards for gold; color is consistent with 14k alloy; no visible base metal wear/pitting.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA, Italy, or Turkey; mass-produced using industrial jewelry manufacturing techniques.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Era (late 20th to early 21st century). Post-1980s based on clasp style and texturing.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The texture and lobster clasp were highly prevalent in retail jewelry during this period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the consumer jewelry boom of the late 20th century where 'gold by the gram' and textured pendants were standard gifts.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. Minor surface wear and micro-scratches visible on the bail. Clasp appears functional. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
Melt value ($200-$350 depending on weight) plus 20-50% retail premium. Secondary market value approx. $300-$500.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush. Avoid harsh chemicals or chlorine. Store in a soft pouch to prevent chain tangling.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Ingot Pendant (luxury version); 24k Credit Suisse Ingot in 14k frame (investment version).
Interesting Facts
Ingot pendants gained popularity in the 1970s and 80s as symbols of wealth and the intrinsic value of gold during market fluctuations.