Octagonal Sterling Silver Arabic Script Engraved Pendant
Jewelry (Pendant/Amulet) · Unidentified regional silversmith, likely Middle Eastern or South Asian origin. These pieces are often crafted by local artisans in specialized jewelry quarters like those in Istanbul, Cairo, or Delhi.
Pattern: Traditional Religious/Calligraphic; typically custom-ordered or produced in small batches. Not part of a mass-market commercial pattern.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Amulet)
Maker
Unidentified regional silversmith, likely Middle Eastern or South Asian origin. These pieces are often crafted by local artisans in specialized jewelry quarters like those in Istanbul, Cairo, or Delhi.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or higher purity (possibly .950). Many regional pieces use a higher silver content than Western sterling to accommodate deep hand-engraving.
Dimensions
Estimated 3.5cm x 2.5cm (excluding bail). Estimated weight is approximately 8-12 grams based on the thickness of the silver plate.
Description
This is a rectangular pendant with clipped corners, creating an elongated octagonal silhouette. The face is adorned with hand-inscribed Arabic calligraphy, most commonly used for Islamic prayers or personal names. The high-polish finish reflects light, emphasizing the depth of the engraving work. It serves as both a piece of fine jewelry and a personal talisman, combining religious significance with classic silver craftsmanship.
Key Features
Hand-engraved Arabic calligraphy, octagonal 'emerald cut' shape, and substantial silver weight for its size. The raised border creates a recessed field that protects the engraving from excessive wear.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or higher purity (possibly .950). Many regional pieces use a higher silver content than Western sterling to accommodate deep hand-engraving.
Finish & Decoration
Polished high-shine surface with hand-engraved Arabic script. The script appears to be a religious invocation or verse. The pendant features an octagonal (clipped corner) border with a raised or chamfered edge.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in the primary photo; likely located on the reverse side or the interior of the bail. Expected marks for this type include an '800', '900', or '925' stamp, or a regional assay mark (e.g., Egyptian 'cat' or Turkish 'tughra').
Construction Details
Die-cut or cast base plate with a soldered bail. The bail is a standard 'V' shape attached to a small loop on the frame. The central text is hand-engraved rather than stamped, evidenced by the slight irregularities in stroke depth.
Functional Features
Single suspension loop at the top with a tapered bail to allow for various chain thicknesses. The flat back is designed to sit flush against the chest.
Handle & Grip Details
Tapered silver suspension bail, likely original. It shows standard triangular folding construction to provide security while allowing free movement of the pendant.
Craftsmanship Details
Moderate craftsmanship. The engraving is legible and well-spaced, though the frame shows signs of commercial mass-finishing. The bail is a standard stock item rather than a custom-forged piece.
Authentication Indicators
Solder color at the bail attachment matches the body. The irregularities in the text strokes confirm hand-engraving rather than a computer-aided laser etching. Silver testing would be needed to confirm the exact fineness.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Egypt, or UAE) or South Asia (Pakistan). This format of octagonal tablet is standard for Ayatul Kursi or other protective prayers.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (Late 20th Century to Present). While the style is traditional, the precision of the frame and the bail type suggest modern production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The lack of extensive patina and the style of the bail suggest it is a relatively modern piece of devotional jewelry.
Cultural Significance
Such pendants are often given as gifts during religious milestones, births, or before travels. They represent a blend of personal faith and the long-standing tradition of silver-working in the Islamic world.
Condition Notes
Very Good. There are visible surface scratches consistent with wear against clothing. The bail is intact and shows no signs of thinning. Light tarnish is present in the recessed areas of the engraving, which actually helps the text stand out.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD. Value is driven primarily by silver weight and the quality of the hand-calligraphy rather than maker prestige.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and mild soapy water. For the engraving, a very soft toothbrush can remove dust. Avoid chemical dips as they can remove the natural oxidation that makes the text readable.
Similar Pieces
Standard 'Dog Tag' pendants (usually machine-stamped), Niello pendants from Iraq (which feature black inlay), or cast 'Ayatul Kursi' pendants which have much shallower, uniform text.
Interesting Facts
The octagonal shape in Islamic geometry often represents the 'Eight Angels' and is a common motif in architecture and decorative arts, believed to bridge the gap between the circle (heaven) and the square (earth).