Vintage Silver Filigree Starburst Pendant/Charm
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm) · Unidentified artisan; likely a regional workshop specializing in filigree traditions, possibly Mediterranean, Portuguese, or Middle Eastern in origin.
Pattern: Traditional Filigree Sunflower or Starburst Motif; no specific commercial collection name.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm)
Maker
Unidentified artisan; likely a regional workshop specializing in filigree traditions, possibly Mediterranean, Portuguese, or Middle Eastern in origin.
Material
Silver alloy, likely 800 or 835 silver based on regional filigree traditions, though potentially .925 sterling; contains fine silver wires soldered onto a frame.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 2.5 - 3.5 cm (1 to 1.4 inches); estimated weight of 3 - 6 grams. Lightweight due to the openwork nature of filigree.
Description
An intricate silver pendant shaped like a stylized sun or starburst. The central circular section features a dense mesh of filigree wire, surrounded by nine petal-like points, each containing a tightly coiled wire scroll. The item highlights the delicate 'lace' effect characteristic of traditional silver wire work, emphasizing shadows and light through its open design.
Key Features
Concentric filigree scrolls; scalloped starburst points; 'nest' like central texture; hand-soldered wire construction.
Material & Composition
Silver alloy, likely 800 or 835 silver based on regional filigree traditions, though potentially .925 sterling; contains fine silver wires soldered onto a frame.
Finish & Decoration
Filigree decoration consisting of twisted wire scrolls (telkari) and granulation. Features an oxidized/patinated finish to accentuate the depth of the wirework in a folk-art style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible marks on the front; typical of such artisan pieces, stamps are often located on the bail (jump ring) or the reverse frame. Usually stamped with 800 or 925.
Construction Details
Hand-constructed using a frame (skeleton) of thicker silver wire, filled with thin, crimped/twisted fine silver wires soldered at contact points. Features a soldered-on bail.
Functional Features
Single fixed bail for suspension on a chain or cord; central recessed 'nest' design which may have originally held a small cabochon stone or enamel insert.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Pendant features a simple tapered silver bail for attachment.
Craftsmanship Details
High-level hand-wrought assembly. The consistent tension of the wire scrolls indicates a skilled artisan, though the lack of marks suggests a commercial tourist or local market origin.
Authentication Indicators
Irregularity in wire coiling confirms hand-assembly rather than machine stamping; solder flow consistent with traditional torch methods; appropriate natural oxidation patterns.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Portugal, Malta, or Italy (Sardinia/Genoa), where filigree traditions remain highly active. Hand-assembled in a small workshop environment.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1940-1970); reflects the post-war resurgence in traditional European and North African tourist jewelry.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1960. The patina and construction are consistent with mid-century traditional artisan production.
Cultural Significance
Filigree jewelry often served as accessible luxury in agrarian societies, frequently passed down as part of bridal dowries or worn as protective amulets in Mediterranean cultures.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Significant tarnish/oxidation present in the crevices (desirable for depth); some slight distortion to the outer wire frame consistent with age. Bail shows light wear.
Value Estimate
$25 - $55 USD depending on silver purity and exact weight; value is primarily in the hand-wrought craftsmanship rather than metal weight.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a very soft brush and mild soapy water only; avoid chemical dips as they will strip the desirable dark patina from the wire crevices. Store in a dry, soft pouch.
Similar Pieces
Portuguese Coração de Viana (Heart) pendants; Maltese Cross filigree; Taxco Mexican silver wirework (which tends to be heavier in gauge).
Interesting Facts
The art of filigree (from Latin 'filum' meaning thread and 'granum' meaning grain) dates back to ancient Mesopotamia and has remained virtually unchanged in technique for over 5,000 years.