Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Forget-Me-Knot Ribbon Pendant
Jewelry (Necklace/Pendant) · Tiffany & Co., one of the world's most prestigious luxury jewelry houses founded in New York in 1837. Known for high-quality craftsmanship and iconic minimalist designs.
Pattern: Forget-Me-Knot Collection, a classic line featuring stylised ribbon and bow motifs representing love and remembrance.
Type
Jewelry (Necklace/Pendant)
Maker
Tiffany & Co., one of the world's most prestigious luxury jewelry houses founded in New York in 1837. Known for high-quality craftsmanship and iconic minimalist designs.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with a gold-tone appearance appearing to be Vermeil (gold-plated silver) based on the warm hue in the imagery.
Dimensions
Pendant: approx. 20-25mm height; Chain: standard 16 or 18 inches. Weight: approx. 3-5 grams including chain.
Description
This elegant pendant features a single, flowing strand of precious metal meticulously tied into a symbolic 'forget-me-knot.' It represents the sophisticated simplicity that Tiffany & Co. is known for, bridging the gap between everyday wear and luxury statement jewelry.
Key Features
The signature asymmetrical bow shape and the 'seamless' look of the knot are key diagnostic features for the Tiffany collection.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with a gold-tone appearance appearing to be Vermeil (gold-plated silver) based on the warm hue in the imagery.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a simple, knotted wire design. The decoration is minimalist and abstract, typical of 20th-century designer collections.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks (not clearly visible in photo but standard for the item) include 'T & Co.', '925', and 'Italy' or 'Germany' depending on the production year, usually stamped on a small oval tag near the clasp or on the back of the pendant.
Construction Details
Cast and hand-finished wire construction; the 'knot' is a fixed design element. The chain is a delicate machine-made cable or link style.
Functional Features
Sliding pendant design on a fixed chain; spring-ring or lobster-claw clasp for security.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A for jewelry; however, the smooth curvature of the ribbon is designed for comfort against the skin.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality hand polishing ensures no visible casting lines or rough edges on the looping wire, demonstrating superior quality control typical of the brand.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Tiffany cable chain links, fluid curvature of the knot without sharp solder seams, and specific brand-style font on the (unseen) hallmark tag.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in the USA (New York), typically manufactured in Tiffany's specialized workshops in Italy or the United States.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Modern Era (Late 20th Century to present). The design reflects the minimalist luxury aesthetic popularized in the 1970s and 80s.
Age Estimate
c. 1990-present day. This design has been a staple in the Tiffany catalog for several decades.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the late 20th century, where 'designer' silver jewelry became a primary status symbol for a wider demographic.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible light surface scratches (swirl marks) and some tarnish consistent with silver exposure. The gold plating (if vermeil) shows slight fading on the high points. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD depending on the current retail price, condition, and presence of original packaging (box and pouch).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush. Use a specialized silver jewelry cloth for polishing. Avoid chemical dips as they can damage the gold plating (vermeil). Store in the original Tiffany blue pouch to prevent scratches.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany Bow Pendant (more traditional bow shape), Tiffany Infinity Pendant, or Elsa Peretti Open Heart.
Interesting Facts
The Forget-Me-Knot collection was a favorite for gift-giving during the 1990s, often used as a 'promise' piece or a sentimental gift between family members.