James Avery Jewelry Retired Heart Scroll Charm or Pendant
Jewelry (Charm/Pendant) · James Avery Craftsman, Inc. Founded in 1954 in Kerrville, Texas, the company is renowned for high-quality, faith-inspired and artisan-crafted jewelry with a strong collector following.
Pattern: Retired Heart Scroll Collection
Type
Jewelry (Charm/Pendant)
Maker
James Avery Craftsman, Inc. Founded in 1954 in Kerrville, Texas, the company is renowned for high-quality, faith-inspired and artisan-crafted jewelry with a strong collector following.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition with high-polish finish.
Dimensions
Approximately 2.0 cm in length; weight estimated between 2.5 to 4.0 grams.
Description
This charming sterling silver pendant features the signature James Avery aesthetic, blending a whimsical scroll with a symbolic open heart. Its fluid, organic shape and high-shine surface make it a versatile piece for collectors of vintage Texas silver.
Key Features
Distinctive 'hook-and-eye' visual style, heavy gauge silver relative to size, and the characteristic smooth, rounded edges typical of James Avery craftsmanship.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition with high-polish finish.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a curvilinear scroll motif and a cutout open-heart design. The style is classic Southwestern Modernist with clean, flowing lines.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on the reverse or side with the James Avery 'Candelabra' logo and 'STER' or '925'. Typical for silver items from this Texas-based jeweler.
Construction Details
Cast using the lost-wax method, followed by hand-tumbling and high-speed buffing for a smooth, seamless finish.
Functional Features
Curved scroll top designed to be threaded onto a chain or attached to a charm bracelet via a jump ring.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality boutique casting with hand-finishing. Unlike mass-produced imported silver, this piece shows thickness and 'heft' that indicates premium craftsmanship.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic rounded casting edges, high-quality silver resonance, and the presence of the Avery candelabra hallmark (though not visible in the top-down photo).
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; manufactured in Kerrville, Texas, at the James Avery Artisan workshops.
Era & Period
Modern Era (Late 20th Century, 1980s-1990s). The design reflects the trend of sculptural, minimalist sterling jewelry popular in the American Southwest.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. This specific heart-and-scroll motif was a hallmark of their aesthetic during this period before being retired.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Kerrville style' of silver jewelry which became a cultural staple for gift-giving and milestone commemorations in the Southern United States.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent condition. Shows minor surface micro-scratches consistent with light wear. No significant dents, deep gouges, or structural damage.
Value Estimate
$40.00 - $85.00 depending on the current demand for retired Avery charms and the presence of original packaging.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; use a branded silver polishing cloth (like Sunshine or Hagerty) to restore shine. Avoid liquid chemical dips which can strip the luster of James Avery silver.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Heart designs (more minimalist), Brighton (often silver-plated with more ornate etching), or Georg Jensen (more Scandinavian Modernist).
Interesting Facts
James Avery began his business in a two-car garage with about $250. Today, 'retired' charms like this heart scroll are highly sought after by collectors who aim to complete 'vintage-look' bracelets.