Irish Celtic Knot Openwork Sterling Silver Cross Pendant
Jewellery (Pendant) · Unidentified Irish or British silversmith (Solvar or similar Celtic specialty makers likely)
Pattern: Celtic Revival / Irish Heritage Collection
Type
Jewellery (Pendant)
Maker
Unidentified Irish or British silversmith (Solvar or similar Celtic specialty makers likely)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925)
Dimensions
Approximately 3cm height, 2cm width; estimated weight 3-5 grams.
Description
A classic example of Celtic heritage jewelry, this sterling silver pendant features a flared cross design with intricate knotwork. The center and arms are accented by openwork piercing, creating a light, airy silhouette. The darkened recessed areas provide a 'vintage' look that emphasizes the interlacing patterns symbolic of eternal life.
Key Features
Open quatrefoil center, triquetra (trinity knot) motifs on the arms, and a flared 'Celtic' cross silhouette.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925)
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized/antiqued finish with high-polish highlights, featuring Celtic knotwork (triquetra) and openwork (pierced) quatrefoil design.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '925' or featuring the Dublin Assay Office marks (Hibernia, Harp Crowned) on the reverse or the jump ring.
Construction Details
Die-struck or cast with hand-applied oxidation to enhance the recessed knotwork detail.
Functional Features
Suspension loop (bail) for attachment to a chain or necklace.
Handle & Grip Details
Simple silver jump ring bail attached to an integrated loop at the top of the cross.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial quality casting with post-cast polishing; the piercing is clean, indicating a high-quality mold or die.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the knotwork, appearance of '925' fineness mark (implied), and standard silver casting texture.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Ireland (Dublin) or United Kingdom (Birmingham) specializing in souvenir and heritage jewelry.
Era & Period
Contemporary Celtic Revival (Late 20th Century to Present).
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2010 based on the crispness of the casting and the lobster-claw or ring bail style common in modern retail.
Cultural Significance
Represents Irish identity, Christian faith, and the enduring popularity of Celtic art in modern personal adornment.
Condition Notes
Very Good; minor surface tarnish and light scratches consistent with wear. The oxidation in the pattern appears intact.
Value Estimate
$25 - $60 USD depending on the specific maker's mark and weight.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver cloth; avoid liquid dips which can strip the intentional darkening (oxidation) from the knotwork crevices.
Similar Pieces
St. Justin pewter pendants (cheaper, non-precious), Solvar fine gold Celtic crosses (higher end), or Marcasite-inlaid Irish jewelry.
Interesting Facts
The Celtic Cross design combines the traditional Christian cross with a circle (or halo), originally popular in Ireland and Britain during the Early Middle Ages.