Cast Sterling Silver Pomegranate Charm or Keychain Pendant
Jewelry (Charm/Pendant) or Decorative Accessory (Keychain) · Unidentified artisan or boutique silversmith; likely a contemporary Mediterranean or Middle Eastern workshop, possibly Israeli given pomegranate motifs.
Pattern: Naturalistic Pomegranate Study; typical of Judaica or botanical folk art collections.
Type
Jewelry (Charm/Pendant) or Decorative Accessory (Keychain)
Maker
Unidentified artisan or boutique silversmith; likely a contemporary Mediterranean or Middle Eastern workshop, possibly Israeli given pomegranate motifs.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or 925-grade silver; solid cast metal with a high-purity appearance, though potential for white metal alloy (pewter/zinc) exists without testing.
Dimensions
Approx. 2.5 - 3 cm in length excluding the ring; estimated weight 10-15 grams due to the solid cast appearance.
Description
A sculptural silver charm depicting a ripening pomegranate with a vertical rupture to reveal internal seeds. The piece utilizes heavy oxidation to create contrast between the smooth outer skin and the textured interior fruit.
Key Features
The 'burst' seed pod detail, the naturalistic leaf curvature, and the integrated loop design that avoids modern machine-finished seams.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or 925-grade silver; solid cast metal with a high-purity appearance, though potential for white metal alloy (pewter/zinc) exists without testing.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and high-polish finish; features a rupture reveal of stylized seeds. Texturized organic surface with a distinct patina in recessed areas to highlight depth.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps in the image; typically found on the bail ring or the reverse of the leaf. If authentic silver, a '925' mark would be expected.
Construction Details
Lost-wax casting process; evidenced by the organic irregular surface and the integrated loop and stem. The seeds are likely part of the original mold rather than applied later.
Functional Features
Closed loop at the base for attachment to a jump ring; split-ring keychain attachment currently installed.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the stem and leaf act as the structural grip for the charm attachment.
Craftsmanship Details
Solid sculptural quality; shows good attention to botanical accuracy with a 'hand-wrought' feel despite being a cast piece.
Authentication Indicators
The granular texture in the seeds suggests a casting mold. The color of the metal where it is polished suggests high silver content, but the lack of visible stamps in the photo requires an acid test.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely origin in a region where the pomegranate is symbolic, such as Israel, Greece, or Italy. Workshop-level production rather than mass-factory stamped.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (Late 20th - 21st Century); reflects a revival of organic, brutalist-influenced botanical design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present; based on the casting quality and the modern split-ring accessory attached.
Cultural Significance
Commonly given as a token of luck or prosperity in Mediterranean cultures; a staple motif in modern Judaica jewelry.
Condition Notes
Good; showing surface micro-scratches consistent with being carried on a keychain. Oxidation is heavy in recesses, which may be intentional or environmental.
Value Estimate
$30 - $75 USD if Sterling Silver; $5 - $15 if a base metal alloy.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a silver cloth. Avoid chemical dips as they will remove the intentional oxidation that provides the 'seed' definition.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Pomegranate charms (usually much smoother/minimalist) or generic pewter souvenirs (which lack the bright white luster seen here).
Interesting Facts
In many cultures, the pomegranate represents fertility, abundance, and righteousness (in Jewish tradition, it is said to have 613 seeds, matching the mitzvot).