Modern Vermeil Garnet-Style Floral Pendant
Jewelry (Pendant and Chain) · Unknown Manufacturer; likely a contemporary costume or boutique brand.
Pattern: Floral Cluster/Scalloped Petal design with central oval gemstone.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant and Chain)
Maker
Unknown Manufacturer; likely a contemporary costume or boutique brand.
Material
Vermeil or Gold-Plated Silver; likely a sterling silver or brass base with yellow gold plating. Central synthetic or low-grade natural garnet-colored stone and cubic zirconia accents.
Dimensions
Pendant approximately 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm. Weight estimated at 3-5 grams including stones.
Description
A charming gold-toned floral pendant featuring a deep burgundy-purple oval stone nestled within a series of organic, scalloped metal petals. The piece is accented by small, sparkling white stones that provide contrast against the warm gold finish. Suspended from a classic oval-link chain, this piece is representative of affordable, fashionable jewelry intended for daily wear.
Key Features
Scalloped petal design, deep garnet-colored central stone, four-point diamond-simulant accents.
Material & Composition
Vermeil or Gold-Plated Silver; likely a sterling silver or brass base with yellow gold plating. Central synthetic or low-grade natural garnet-colored stone and cubic zirconia accents.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish yellow gold finish over a cast petal setting. Features a large oval-cut central stone in a four-prong setting and four small round-cut white accent stones.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None clearly visible in image; typically found on the back of the pendant or on the chain clasp (e.g., '925' or '14K GP').
Construction Details
Lost-wax casting for the pendant body; machine-link chain. Prongs are bent to secure gemstones.
Functional Features
Tapered bail allowing for chain movement; spring-ring or lobster-claw clasp on the chain (not fully visible).
Handle & Grip Details
Fixed tapered bail at the top of the pendant; smooth metal surface designed for skin contact.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade casting; standard commercial-quality prong setting for the stones; mass-produced chain components.
Authentication Indicators
Uniform gold color suggests electroplating rather than solid gold; casting lines visible under magnification.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely mass-produced, common in manufacturing hubs like Thailand, China, or India for the commercial market.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary Era (late 20th century to present); lacks specific antique stylistic indicators.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990s–2020s based on the cut of the stones and the style of the casting.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury, making jewelry with the appearance of precious gemstones and gold accessible to a broader consumer market.
Condition Notes
Good condition; slight surface scratches and minor wear to the plating on the high-relief edges of the petals. No missing stones.
Value Estimate
$20–$60 USD depending on whether the base metal is verified as .925 sterling silver.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft damp cloth only; avoid silver dips or abrasive polishes which will strip the gold plating from the silver base.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso designs or vintage Sarah Coventry floral brooches/pendants from the costume jewelry market.
Interesting Facts
Vermeil, or gilded silver, was originally created in the 18th century but became highly popular in late-20th-century fashion jewelry as a way to offer more affordable 'real' jewelry.