Italian Sterling Silver Crucifix Pendant, Corpus Christi
Jewelry (Religious Pendant) · Unknown Italian manufacturer; likely a mass-production jewelry house specializing in religious medals and devotional items.
Pattern: Classic Roman Catholic Crucifixion motif; non-exclusive liturgical pattern produced by various silversmiths.
Type
Jewelry (Religious Pendant)
Maker
Unknown Italian manufacturer; likely a mass-production jewelry house specializing in religious medals and devotional items.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity); solid metal body with a small circular silver jump ring for suspension.
Dimensions
Estimated length of 30-40mm (approx. 1.25 to 1.5 inches); estimated weight between 2.0 and 4.0 grams.
Description
A refined sterling silver devotional crucifix featuring a detailed Corpus Christi figure mounted on a minimalist latin cross. The figure is depicted with traditional drapery and a slight S-curve posture, representing the ‘Christus Patiens’ (Suffering Christ). The contrast between the sleek, geometric bars of the cross and the sculpted, textural figure creates a timeless piece of religious jewelry.
Key Features
Minimalist square-cut cross bars; detailed anatomical casting of the figure; antiqued finish in crevices to provide depth and contrast.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity); solid metal body with a small circular silver jump ring for suspension.
Finish & Decoration
Polished high-shine finish on the cross bars; oxidized (antiqued) finish in the recesses of the Corpus to highlight anatomical detail; features a three-nail design (triclavianism).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on the reverse or the jump ring with '925' and possibly a lozenge-shaped Italian provincial mark (e.g., '* 123 AR' for Arezzo). No hallmarks are visible in the provided image orientation.
Construction Details
Die-struck or investment cast Corpus (body of Christ) soldered or pinned to a cross made of two interlocking square-wire silver bars.
Functional Features
Top loop (bail) with a split jump ring for attachment to a neck chain, rosary, or cord.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; pendant form. The suspension ring appears to be a light-gauge circular wire.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-made with commercial grade quality; the figure shows clean definition without the 'softness' typical of low-quality lead-cast counterfeits.
Authentication Indicators
Solder points are clean; the proportions of the figure are consistent with high-quality Italian religious castings; '925' or 'Sterling' stamp is expected on the back side (not visible here).
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Italy (Arezzo or Vicenza regions), world-renowned hubs for silver religious jewelry manufacturing.
Era & Period
Modern Era (late 20th century to present); follows traditional Catholic iconography used for centuries but rendered with modern manufacturing precision.
Age Estimate
Late 20th century (c. 1980 - early 2000s) based on the crispness of the casting and standard jewelry findings.
Cultural Significance
A primary symbol of Christian and specifically Catholic identity; serves as both a wearable statement of faith and a protective sacramental object.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent; minor surface micro-scratching on the flat bars consistent with light wear; light tarnish visible in the recesses; structural integrity is sound.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $65.00 USD, depending on the weight and the specific retail/collector market.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver polishing cloth; avoid chemical 'dips' which may remove the intentional antiquing/oxidation in the figure's details. Store in a cool, dry place.
Similar Pieces
14k Gold versions (more expensive); Pewter or 'Silver-tone' base metal versions (lacks stamps, lighter weight); Benedictine Crucifixes (includes the St. Benedict medal behind the head).
Interesting Facts
The Crucifix differs from a plain cross as it specifically includes the 'Corpus' (body), emphasizing the sacrificial aspect of the faith. Pieces like this are often gifted for Sacraments like Confirmation or First Communion.