Lebanese Cedar Silver Filigree Star Pendant
Jewelry - Pendant · Artisanal Mid-Eastern Silversmith; likely Lebanese workshop origins known for traditional intricate wirework and nationalistic jewelry specifically for the tourist and expatriate trade.
Pattern: Lebanese National Cedar (Arz) Motif; a popular folk-art jewelry design often produced in the mid-to-late 20th century.
Type
Jewelry - Pendant
Maker
Artisanal Mid-Eastern Silversmith; likely Lebanese workshop origins known for traditional intricate wirework and nationalistic jewelry specifically for the tourist and expatriate trade.
Material
Likely High-Grade Silver (ranging from .800 to .925 purity); features twisted silver wire 'filigree' and a central silver-sheet applique with green enamel or colored lacquer in the background.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 2.5cm to 3.5cm; estimated weight: 4.0 to 7.0 grams. It is a standard size for a statement necklace pendant.
Description
This pendant features an eight-pointed star frame enclosing a series of delicate silver filigree scrolls. At the heart of the piece is the iconic Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani), the national symbol representing longevity and holiness. The contrast between the bright silver tree and the dark, oxidized recesses of the filigree creates a striking visual depth, while the green background provides a touch of color characteristic of the Mediterranean landscape.
Key Features
Hand-spun filigree wirework; central cedar tree motif; eight-pointed star (symbolizing rebirth or radiant light); and specific green pigmentation within the star petals.
Material & Composition
Likely High-Grade Silver (ranging from .800 to .925 purity); features twisted silver wire 'filigree' and a central silver-sheet applique with green enamel or colored lacquer in the background.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and antiqued finish to highlight the depth of the wirework; features filigree (telkari) technique, rope-twist edging, and green enamel/pigment within the star points to represent the foliage of the cedar.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Possibly stamped on the reverse or the bale (the hanging loop). Likely marks would include '925', '800', or an Arabic silver hallmark common in the Levant. Many of these artisanal pieces are occasionally unmarked but test as silver.
Construction Details
Hand-assembled using filigree techniques; fine wires are curled into decorative scrolls ('vav' or butterfly patterns) and soldered into a cast or stamped frame. The cedar tree is a separate piece of silver sheet applied to the center.
Functional Features
Single fixed-orientation bale for threading onto a chain; multi-layered construction to provide a three-dimensional effect.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; item features a standard tapered silver bale attached to the top point of the star motif.
Craftsmanship Details
Intermediate-level artisan work. While the filigree is somewhat uniform, the hand-soldered edges and the hand-cut central tree applique indicate a piece made by a skilled bench jeweler rather than a mass-production machine.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of fine soldering points consistent with hand-assembly rather than a single-mold cast; realistic oxidation patterns; 'rope' border hand-soldered around the central medallion.
Origin & Manufacturing
Lebanon, likely Beirut or Tripoli. These cities have long histories of master silversmiths specializing in delicate wirework (filigree) influenced by Ottoman and Phoenician traditions.
Era & Period
Modern/Post-Colonial Era (c. 1950-1980); reflecting a period of Lebanese national pride and the peak of the Middle Eastern artisan jewelry trade for international visitors.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1975 based on the style of the bale and the use of green resin/enamel accents common during this manufacturing period.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of Lebanese identity and cultural heritage. Filigree work in the Middle East is a vanishing craft, as younger generations move away from the time-intensive labor required to hand-bend every individual wire scroll.
Condition Notes
Good pre-owned condition. Shows heavy oxidation (tarnish) in the recessed areas which is intentional for the aesthetic. Minor wear to the green pigment/enamel. The bale appears sturdy but slightly deformed from use. (Grade: Very Good).
Value Estimate
$35 - $75 USD depending on silver purity and hallmark presence. Value is primarily in the decorative craft and sentimental/heritage appeal rather than just the bullion weight.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning only. Do not use silver 'dips' as they will remove the dark oxidation that makes the filigree visible. Use a soft silver cloth on the raised 'tree' only. Avoid water, which can loosen the green pigment if it is resin-based.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Maltese Cross jewelry or Israeli filigree (Yemenite style). Key difference is the specific shape of the Lebanese cedar and the specific 'dark' oxidation favored by Lebanese smiths.
Interesting Facts
The Cedar of Lebanon is mentioned 75 times in the Bible and was used by King Solomon to build the First Temple in Jerusalem. Jewelry featuring this tree is often gifted as a symbol of resilience.