Gold-Washed Sterling Silver Rose Pendant and Chain with Decorative Ovoid Accents
Jewelry (Necklace and Pendant) · Unknown manufacturer; the style is consistent with mid-range decorative jewelry brands like Avon high-end lines or Italian boutique silversmiths often found in department stores.
Pattern: Floral Botanical Series; generic rose motif with a textured wheat-style chain.
Type
Jewelry (Necklace and Pendant)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; the style is consistent with mid-range decorative jewelry brands like Avon high-end lines or Italian boutique silversmiths often found in department stores.
Material
Gold-plated Sterling Silver (Vermeil). The underlying metal is .925 silver with a heavy gold wash. Note the visible wear on the oval charm edges suggesting silver beneath.
Dimensions
Estimated chain length 18-24 inches; pendant approximately 15-20mm. Weight estimated between 10-15 grams total.
Description
An elegant gold-over-sterling silver necklace featuring a central blooming rose in high relief. The piece utilizes a sophisticated wheat-link chain accented by flat, beaded-edge oval charms. The warm gold tone provides a luxurious appearance while maintaining the intrinsic value of a precious metal core.
Key Features
High-relief three-dimensional rose; fancy wheat link chain; ovoid decorative tags; barrel clasp mechanism.
Material & Composition
Gold-plated Sterling Silver (Vermeil). The underlying metal is .925 silver with a heavy gold wash. Note the visible wear on the oval charm edges suggesting silver beneath.
Finish & Decoration
Textured gold-tone finish with a high-relief dimensional rose pendant. The petals feature a 'crinkled' or organic texture consistent with cast metalwork. The chain is an intricate fancy link/wheat style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '925' or 'Sterling' on the small oval flat charms and the pendant reverse. No prominent master maker hallmarks are visible in the photograph.
Construction Details
The pendant is most likely investment cast; the chain is machine-manufactured link-by-link. The assembly includes a barrel-style clasp and decorative oval tags.
Functional Features
Includes a magnetic or friction-fit barrel clasp (noted by the cylindrical terminal) and decorative spacers to prevent the pendant from sliding too freely.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a wearable jewelry item.
Craftsmanship Details
The pendant shows good detail in the casting of the petals. The chain links are well-articulated, showing quality industrial manufacturing. The use of vermeil is a mark of higher quality than standard costume jewelry.
Authentication Indicators
The luster is consistent with gold plating over silver rather than brass. The weight and drape of the chain suggest a dense metal like sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Italy or the United States. Mass-produced but with high-quality finishing typical of the sterling silver gift market.
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th Century (c. 1970s - 1990s). The textured floral aesthetic and barrel clasp are hallmarks of this period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1985-1995 based on the style of the chain links and the specific barrel clasp design.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'boutique jewelry' movement where sterling silver became a preferred medium for daily-wear accessible luxury items.
Condition Notes
Very Good. There is slight tarnish in the crevices of the rose petals and minor thinning of the gold plating on high-friction areas of the chain links.
Value Estimate
$45 - $85 USD based on weight and brand; value is primarily in the aesthetic and the silver content rather than a specific designer name.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemical dips which can strip the gold wash. Use a soft silver polishing cloth very gently. Store in a dry, airtight bag to prevent tarnish of the silver base through the plating.
Similar Pieces
Giovanni Rose Brooches (often gold plated base metal), Tiffany Rose pendants (more minimalist/sculptural), 14k solid gold rose pendants (lighter in color, heavier in density).
Interesting Facts
The rose has remained the most popular botanical motif in jewelry for centuries, symbolizing love and beauty; gold-washed silver was a popular way to offer high-fashion looks at affordable price points during the late 20th century gold price spikes.