Minimalist Plain Latin Cross Pendant in Tarnish-Resistant Silver
Jewelry (Pendant) · Unidentified mass-manufactured brand, typical of contemporary commercial jewelers or religious supply houses.
Pattern: Classic Latin Cross; non-specific pattern in production globally for centuries.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant)
Maker
Unidentified mass-manufactured brand, typical of contemporary commercial jewelers or religious supply houses.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or silver-plated brass/bronze; the yellowish-green patina and heavy oxidation suggest a high copper content base or significant surface contamination.
Dimensions
Estimated 3.5cm - 4cm in length; weight approximately 3-5 grams based on thickness.
Description
A utilitarian and understated Latin cross pendant featuring a flat profile and rectangular cross-section. The piece eschews traditional ornamentation in favor of a clean, geometric silhouette suitable for unisex wear.
Key Features
Planar surface, right-angled arm terminations, and an integrated bore-hole for suspension rather than a soldered bail.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or silver-plated brass/bronze; the yellowish-green patina and heavy oxidation suggest a high copper content base or significant surface contamination.
Finish & Decoration
Matte to satin finish with evidence of heavy oxidation and tarnish. Plain, flat-faced design with squared edges and a simple drilled suspension hole; lacks engraving or repoussé.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible on the face; likely located on the reverse side or a missing jump ring. Expected marks would be '925' or 'STERLING'.
Construction Details
Likely die-struck or water-jet cut from a flat sheet of metal, followed by mechanical tumbling and drilling. Mass-produced machine manufacture.
Functional Features
Single drilled hole at the apex for a jump ring or bail; purely decorative and symbolic.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Pendant form)
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial quality; edges are clean but lack the hand-finishing or beveled detailing found in luxury silver goods.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry and edge uniformity suggest machine production; the 'Connoisseurs' cloth in the background implies the owner believes it to be silver, though the coloring is atypical for pure sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA, Italy, or China; typical of high-volume industrial jewelry workshops.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (late 20th century to present); follows minimalist aesthetic trends.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present day; the style is evergreen and dating is primarily based on the industrial drilling technique.
Cultural Significance
A primary symbol of Christianity used for personal devotion, protection, and identity.
Condition Notes
Good structural condition but poor surface state. Displays heavy tarnish and a localized 'green' tint suggesting the breakdown of base metals or reaction to skin oils/storage. Grade: Fair/Used.
Value Estimate
$15 - $40 USD, primarily based on metal weight/scrap value and basic retail replacement cost.
Care & Maintenance
Requires deep cleaning with a silver foam or dip to remove the heavy yellowish oxidation; use the provided Connoisseurs cloth for regular maintenance after deep cleaning.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Cross (more rounded/ergonomic); James Avery plain crosses (usually thicker/cast).
Interesting Facts
The Latin cross is the most common form of the cross in the Western world, representing the crux immissa.