Vintage Sterling Silver Crucifix Pendant with Flared Fleur-de-lis Terminals
Jewelry (Pendant/Religious Medal) · Unknown manufacturer, likely an American or European religious specialty silversmith. The piece resembles mass-produced high-quality devotional jewelry from mid-20th-century specialists like Creed or Chapel.
Pattern: Traditional Roman Catholic Crucifix with a sunburst (glory) and fleur-de-lis accents. Non-specific to a branded collection.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Religious Medal)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely an American or European religious specialty silversmith. The piece resembles mass-produced high-quality devotional jewelry from mid-20th-century specialists like Creed or Chapel.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The dark oxidation suggesting silver sulfide buildup is characteristic of sterling. No evidence of gold plate (vermeil) is visible.
Dimensions
Estimated height of 25-35mm (1 to 1.4 inches) excluding the bale. Estimated weight is approximately 2 to 4 grams.
Description
A classic sterling silver crucifix pendant showcasing a detailed figure of Christ set against a decorative sunburst. The cross is characterized by ornate, flared ends featuring fleur-de-lis motifs, symbolizing purity and the Trinity. The deep oxidation in the recessed areas provides a beautiful contrast, highlighting the intricate sculptural details of the piece.
Key Features
Sunburst (Glory) halo behind the head of Christ; decorative fleur-de-lis terminals; petite scale suitable for daily wear.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The dark oxidation suggesting silver sulfide buildup is characteristic of sterling. No evidence of gold plate (vermeil) is visible.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized (antiqued) finish with high-relief casting. Features a central Corpus Christi, a radial sunburst behind the head of Christ, and fleur-de-lis or stylized foliate terminals on each arm of the cross.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the image. Would typically be located on the reverse side or the jump ring, likely stamped 'STERLING' or '925'.
Construction Details
Die-struck or investment cast. The sharpness of the recessed areas suggest a high-pressure die strike common in religious medal manufacturing.
Functional Features
Closed jump ring at the top for suspension from a neck chain. Smooth reverse side (presumed) for comfort against the skin.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Pendant form. Features a small circular wire bale attachment.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The symmetry and detail of the corpus indicate a well-maintained master mold or die.
Authentication Indicators
The color and pattern of the tarnish are consistent with genuine sterling silver. The casting detail is crisp, not blurry like a base-metal reproduction.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Italy. These regions were the primary exporters of sterling silver religious jewelry during the 20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (1940-1970). The design utilizes Victorian Revival elements (fleur-de-lis) popular in religious jewelry of the mid-century era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1980. The wear on the jump ring and the specific style of the corpus suggest a late vintage origin.
Cultural Significance
A staple of Roman Catholic devotional practice, often given as a gift for Sacraments such as Confirmation or First Holy Communion.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Significant tarnish (oxidation) is present throughout, which many collectors prefer as it emphasizes the detail. The jump ring shows slight distortion from wear.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $55.00 USD. Value is based primarily on design and material rather than a specific famous maker.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver polishing cloth. Avoid liquid 'dips' as they will remove the intentional oxidation in the recessed areas that gives the piece its depth.
Similar Pieces
Often compared to 'Creed' or 'Hayward' sterling crucifixes. These alternatives often feature a more minimalist design or different terminal shapes like scalloped edges.
Interesting Facts
The fleur-de-lis at the ends of a cross converts it into a 'Cross Flory,' which in Christian iconography represents the triumph of the resurrection.