Silver-Tone Heart and Crystal Angel Keychain Charm
Jewelry/Accessory (Keychain/Bag Charm) · Unbranded mass-market manufacturer; typical of boutique or craft-fair novelty accessories. No significant silversmith heritage identified.
Pattern: Novelty Angel and Heart motif; non-cataloged generic design.
Type
Jewelry/Accessory (Keychain/Bag Charm)
Maker
Unbranded mass-market manufacturer; typical of boutique or craft-fair novelty accessories. No significant silversmith heritage identified.
Material
Likely Silver-Plated Base Metal (zinc alloy or nickel) with a faceted glass or resin amber-colored teardrop crystal. Not sterling silver.
Dimensions
Estimated total length of 3-4 inches; weight approximately 15-25 grams including the crystal element.
Description
A charming decorative accessory featuring a large heart-shaped lobster clasp connected to a stylized angel. The angel is composed of silver-toned filigree wings and an amber-hued faceted teardrop bead representing the body. Designed to be used as a keychain or bag charm, it combines spiritual symbolism with functional whimsical design.
Key Features
Heart-shaped spring clasp, filigree angel wings, faceted amber-colored crystal focal point.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver-Plated Base Metal (zinc alloy or nickel) with a faceted glass or resin amber-colored teardrop crystal. Not sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver-tone finish with openwork filigree on the angel wings. The heart clasp features a lobster-style spring gate mechanism.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks or fineness stamps (e.g., no '925' or maker's marks). Lack of marks suggests non-precious metal composition.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured and assembled. Cast zinc-alloy components joined by jump rings and a standard swivel-eye lobster clasp.
Functional Features
Spring-loaded gate closure on the heart-shaped clasp; 360-degree swivel joint to prevent chain tangling.
Handle & Grip Details
Heart-shaped clasp acts as the primary grip; smooth metallic surface designed for tactile ease while operating the spring gate.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial grade; visible mold lines on the clasp and jump ring attachments suggest high-volume mechanical production.
Authentication Indicators
Absence of silver hallmarks and graininess of the cast metal indicates this is fashion jewelry ('costume') rather than sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in East Asia (China or Taiwan) for the global souvenir and accessory market.
Era & Period
Contemporary Modern (late 20th to early 21st century). Design indicators suggest mass production for giftware markets.
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-2020. Modern construction techniques and swivel hardware are characteristic of recent decades.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the 'Gift Shop' culture of the late 20th century where spiritual and celestial motifs like angels were highly commercialized for personal accessories.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. Light surface scratches on the metal plating and minor oxidation (tarnish) typical of base-metal alloys. Spring mechanism appears functional.
Value Estimate
Market value approximately $5.00 - $15.00. Primarily valued as a decorative personal item rather than for metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid immersion in water or silver dips which can strip the plating; wipe with a soft dry cloth only and store in a dry environment to prevent pitting.
Similar Pieces
Brighton Collectibles charms or Swarovski crystal bag charms; these generally feature brand logos or higher-quality lead crystal.
Interesting Facts
Angel charms are often used as 'guardian' tokens or memorial gifts, representing protection and guidance for the owner while traveling.