James Avery Sterling Silver Openwork Pendant, Ornate Folate Design
Jewelry (Pendant) · James Avery Artisan Jewelry. Founded in 1954 in Kerrville, Texas, the brand is renowned for faith-based and nature-inspired silver work with a reputation for high-quality American craftsmanship.
Pattern: Discontinued Folate Openwork Pattern; part of the Early/Mid-century inspired decorative collections.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant)
Maker
James Avery Artisan Jewelry. Founded in 1954 in Kerrville, Texas, the brand is renowned for faith-based and nature-inspired silver work with a reputation for high-quality American craftsmanship.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition without plating.
Dimensions
Estimated 25mm to 40mm in height; weight typically ranges between 3 to 10 grams depending on thickness.
Description
This James Avery sterling silver pendant showcases the brand's mastery of the 'subtractive' design language, where negative space creates as much visual interest as the silver itself. The piece features a balance of organic scrolls and geometric cutouts, with an antiqued finish that highlights the depth of the metalwork.
Key Features
Distinguished by the James Avery 'Candelabra' hallmark and the recessed oxidation which is a signature of their earlier decorative pendants.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition without plating.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized (antiqued) recessed areas to provide contrast; high-polish raised surfaces. Features saw-cut openwork (pierce-work) and scrolled foliate motifs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The hallmark consists of the 'Candelabra' symbol (a stylized candelabra that resembles a letter 'B' or 'JA' depending on the era) next to a capital 'STER' or a copyright symbol. The specific mark shown is the James Avery maker's mark with a 'B' inside a circle (representative of certain production eras or copyright marks).
Construction Details
Lost-wax cast followed by hand-finishing and tumbling. The openwork is achieved through precise casting from a hand-carved master mold.
Functional Features
Includes a bail attachment point (likely out of frame) for a chain; lightweight openwork design for comfortable wear.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; pendant form. Attachment bail is typically soldered and integrated into the top scroll.
Craftsmanship Details
Evidence of hand-finishing is seen in the smooth edges of the piercings. The depth of the hallmark indicates it was struck or cast firmly, typical of high-end commercial silver producers.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark clarity is high; the 'B' in a circle mark is consistent with James Avery's trademarking of specific designs during the 1980s. Casting quality shows no pits or bubbles, indicative of genuine Avery production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Kerrville, Texas, USA. Manufactured in the James Avery workshops following traditional casting techniques.
Era & Period
Modern American Artisan / Southwestern Influence (Late 20th Century, 1970s-1990s).
Age Estimate
Circa 1975-1995 based on the style of the copyright mark and the specific aesthetic of the scrollwork.
Cultural Significance
Represents the growth of American artisan jewelry and the 'Texas Silver' tradition which emphasizes durability and classic aesthetic appeal over fast-fashion trends.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible light surface scratches (swirls) consistent with silver age. Moderate tarnish in crevices which serves to enhance the design silhouette.
Value Estimate
$45 - $125 USD depending on size and rarity of the specific retired design.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a soft cloth and a high-quality cream like Wright's. Avoid silver dips as they will strip the intentional black oxidation from the recessed patterns.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with vintage Mexican silver (e.g., Taxco) or Brighton jewelry (which is usually plated), but distinguished by the specific Sterling Candelabra stamp and solid silver composition.
Interesting Facts
James Avery began his business in a two-car garage with about $250. His jewelry is often traded by collectors as 'secondary market' favorites due to the high resale value of retired patterns.
Notes
Antique Japanese or Chinese sterling silver pendant