Chinese Pixiu (Pi Yao) Vermeil/Gold-Plated Beaded Bracelet with Unakite and Turquoise Accents
Jewelry (Beaded Bracelet) · Unknown artisan / Regional Asian workshop; common in Feng Shui jewelry manufacturing centers such as Guangdong or Hong Kong.
Pattern: Traditional Feng Shui Prosperity Amulet; Non-branded mass-produced spiritual talisman.
Type
Jewelry (Beaded Bracelet)
Maker
Unknown artisan / Regional Asian workshop; common in Feng Shui jewelry manufacturing centers such as Guangdong or Hong Kong.
Material
Likely Silver base (925 sterling or lower grade 800-900 silver) with high-karat gold plating (Vermeil); Unakite (green/pink) and Turquoise/Faux-Turquoise glass-beads; Elastic cord construction.
Dimensions
Standard stretch fit (approx. 7 inches circumference); central charm approx. 20-25mm; beads approx. 8-10mm; estimated weight 20-35 grams.
Description
A vibrant Feng Shui talisman featuring a centralized golden Pixiu—the mythical celestial creature known in Chinese folklore as a protector and accumulator of wealth. The charm is flanked by Unakite beads, characterized by their unique mottled green and salmon-pink coloration, and accented with a small turquoise-colored stabilizing bead beneath the charm. This piece blends spiritual symbolism with contemporary jewelry design.
Key Features
The central Pixiu figure with the inscribed wealth symbol; Unakite beads (rare in traditional Chinese sets); the juxtaposition of the golden 'wealth' beast against earth-toned stones.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver base (925 sterling or lower grade 800-900 silver) with high-karat gold plating (Vermeil); Unakite (green/pink) and Turquoise/Faux-Turquoise glass-beads; Elastic cord construction.
Finish & Decoration
Polished high-shine gold finish/vermeil; Pixiu charm features relief casting with traditional Chinese 'Fu' (Fortune/Blessing) character on its back; Repoussé-style animal detailing.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; typically small 'S925' or 'Ag925' stamps may be found on the underside of the central Pixiu charm or a small attached silver tag.
Construction Details
Cast metal central charm (lost-wax or die-cast process); machine-turned and polished stone beads; assembled on high-tension elastic threading.
Functional Features
Expandable elastic band for one-size-fits-all wear; Pixiu charm functions as a spiritual 'pocket' designed to 'swallow' wealth and prevent it from leaving the wearer.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; wearable jewelry.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial casting; focus is on the clarity of the 'Fu' character and the creature's facial expression; stone beads are well-matched in size but vary naturally in pattern.
Authentication Indicators
Color of the metal suggests high-carat gold plating rather than solid gold; bead drill holes are consistent with modern mass-production; lack of patina in crevices suggests recent manufacture.
Origin & Manufacturing
Mainland China or Southeast Asia; manufactured in workshops specializing in semi-precious stone and auspicious metalwork.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Feng Shui Jewelry (21st Century); based on traditional Song through Qing Dynasty mythological motifs.
Age Estimate
Modern (produced within the last 10-15 years).
Cultural Significance
Represents the modern intersection of traditional belief systems (Feng Shui) and personal adornment; used as a luck charm for business people and gamblers.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the gold plating appears intact with minor surface micro-scratches; beads show natural inclusions; elastic appears to maintain integrity.
Value Estimate
$45.00 – $120.00 USD (based on silver content and plating; value is primarily decorative/spiritual rather than investment-grade bullion).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, dry cloth only to preserve gold plating; avoid chemical cleaners or ultrasonic baths which can damage turquoise and unakite; avoid water to prevent elastic degradation.
Similar Pieces
Black Obsidian Pixiu bracelets (more common); Tiger's Eye wealth bracelets; Solid 24k Gold 'Zhaocai' charms on red string.
Interesting Facts
In Chinese mythology, the Pixiu has a voracious appetite for gold and silver but possesses no anus, symbolizing that money comes in but never goes out.