Vintage Silver Filigree Sunflower Pendant
Jewelry - Pendant · Indistinct/Artisan made; likely a regional silversmith from a tradition-heavy area such as Tel Aviv/Yemenite workshops, Greece, or Italy. No specific luxury brand is apparent.
Pattern: Sunflower or Rosette Filigree pattern; a staple of Mid-Century Mediterranean and Middle Eastern silver export jewelry.
Type
Jewelry - Pendant
Maker
Indistinct/Artisan made; likely a regional silversmith from a tradition-heavy area such as Tel Aviv/Yemenite workshops, Greece, or Italy. No specific luxury brand is apparent.
Material
Likely Continental Silver (800–835) or Sterling Silver (.925). The dark, heavy tarnish is typical of silver alloys reacting to sulfur in the air.
Dimensions
Estimated 3.5 cm in diameter excluding the bail. Estimated weight: 4–7 grams. This is a standard size for a statement necklace pendant.
Description
This charming silver pendant is designed in the shape of a multi-petaled flower, possibly a sunflower or zinnia. It utilizes the ancient art of filigree, where delicate silver threads are manipulated into intricate patterns. The center features a concentric web of silver wire, while the surrounding petals are filled with delicate 'S-scroll' motifs. Its dark patina gives it a vintage, moody aesthetic that highlights the complexity of the metalwork.
Key Features
Hand-twisted wirework, eight-pointed solar/flower geometry, and a deep recessed central 'well' that creates a three-dimensional depth unusual in flat pendants.
Material & Composition
Likely Continental Silver (800–835) or Sterling Silver (.925). The dark, heavy tarnish is typical of silver alloys reacting to sulfur in the air.
Finish & Decoration
Filigree decoration consisting of fine, twisted metal wires soldered into curled scrolls and a central web-like motif. The outer petals feature scalloped outlines with interior spiral openwork.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are clearly visible in the image. They are typically found on the side of the bail (the loop) or on a small oval tag near the clasp if on a chain. Common marks for this style include '925', '800', or a small local assay punch.
Construction Details
Hand-assembled filigree. Frame wires are thicker for structural support, while the 'fill' is fine gauge twisted wire. The central cup suggests it may have once held a stone or enamel, or is designed as a 'nest' motif.
Functional Features
Includes a tapered bail at the top for threading onto a chain or cord. The openwork design allows light to pass through the piece.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Pendant bail is a simple soldered loop with a secondary larger ring for the chain.
Craftsmanship Details
The piece shows evidence of skilled manual soldering. The wires are consistently twisted, indicating the use of a traditional hand-cranked tool to prepare the silver before assembly.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of solder points at the junctions of the fine wires indicates hand-assembly rather than a modern wax casting. The unevenness in the petal symmetry further suggests artisan handiwork.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Israel, Portugal, or Greece. These regions are famous for the 'Tel Aviv' or 'Maltese' style filigree traditions which utilize these specific floral/geometric shapes.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950–1970). This style was extremely popular as tourist 'Grand Tour' jewelry and exported heavily during the mid-20th century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960. The level of tarnish and the specific style of the twisted wire suggests a late mid-century origin.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII boom in artisan jewelry exports, where traditional folk crafts from the Mediterranean were adapted for the Western fashion market.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant tarnish (oxidation) is present throughout the crevices. There appears to be green verdigris in some areas, suggesting high copper content in the alloy or exposure to moisture.
Value Estimate
$25.00 – $55.00 USD. Value is based on silver weight and decorative appeal rather than a specific designer name.
Care & Maintenance
Requires a gentle silver dip or an ultrasonic cleaner to reach into the filigree crevices. Avoid abrasive pastes which can get stuck in the fine wires. Dry thoroughly to prevent further oxidization.
Similar Pieces
Maltese Cross filigree pendants, Portuguese 'Heart of Viana' jewelry, or 19th-century 'Cannetille' work which is much finer and often features gold.
Interesting Facts
Filigree was often referred to as 'telkari' in the Ottoman Empire and was considered a highly skilled craft because the artisan must use a blowpipe to solder tiny wires without melting the entire piece.