Contemporary Cubic Zirconia Pave-Set Sterling Silver Halo Pendant Mount
Jewelry (Pendant) · Mass-market jewelry manufacturer; likely a commercial jewelry foundry specializing in semi-mounts for retail jewelers.
Pattern: Modern Halo Semi-Mount; unbranded generic commercial design often found in department stores or online jewelry wholesalers.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant)
Maker
Mass-market jewelry manufacturer; likely a commercial jewelry foundry specializing in semi-mounts for retail jewelers.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with Rhodium plating; accent stones are likely Cubic Zirconia or small glass pastes.
Dimensions
Estimated 20-25mm diameter; approximate weight 3-5 grams including stones. Central opening appears sized for a 10x8mm or 12x10mm oval stone.
Description
A circular sterling silver pendant mount featuring a double row of pave-set colorless stones. This is a 'semi-mount' piece, currently missing its central gemstone. The dark aesthetic in the photo is likely oxidation or photographic shadow, but the item is a standard commercial jewelry component.
Key Features
Double halo design; four-prong center setting; tapered bail; machine-perfect pave alignment.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with Rhodium plating; accent stones are likely Cubic Zirconia or small glass pastes.
Finish & Decoration
Polished finish with rhodium flash plating to prevent tarnish; features pave-set stones in a double halo arrangement with milgrain-style or notched bead edging.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typical marks would include '925' or 'SS' on the bail or reverse; may include a generic manufacturer's trademark (e.g., 'CHINA' or a stylized letter). Blue-ish tint suggests rhodium coating.
Construction Details
Lost-wax investment casting; machine-set pave accents. The bail is a separate component attached via a jump ring. The central setting features four upright prongs for a faceted stone.
Functional Features
Single-loop bail for chain suspension; four-prong 'basket' center designed to hold a faceted gemstone; open-back gallery to allow light through potential center stone.
Handle & Grip Details
Tapered polished bail; attached via a soldered jump ring to the main circular body.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial jewelry grade; evidence of casting cleanup on the edges, machine-set stones, and rhodium plating for a 'white gold' look.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry indicative of modern casting; presence of accent stones; standard prong configuration for semi-mounts. Lack of hand-engraving suggests commercial production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Southeast Asian manufacturing (China, Thailand, or India), which dominates the production of sterling silver semi-mount jewelry.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (Late 20th to 21st Century); reflects the 'Halo' trend popular in jewelry design from 2005 to the present.
Age Estimate
Circa 2010-2023; modern casting techniques and standard commercial pave setting indicators.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury aesthetics, using silver and synthetic stones to mimic high-end diamond and platinum 'halo' designs.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; missing its primary central gemstone. The prongs appear bent or unfinished (ready for stone setting). Minor surface scratches and visible tarnish in recessed areas.
Value Estimate
$15 - $45 USD (as a scrap or silver component); value would increase significantly if a high-quality gemstone were set in the center.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft toothbrush and mild dish soap; avoid ultrasonic cleaners if accent stones are glued or of low quality; store in a dry place to prevent sulfur-induced tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Comparable to halo pendants by brands like Pandora, Swarovski, or department store house brands (e.g., Macy's Fine Jewelry).
Interesting Facts
Semi-mounts like this allow buyers to choose their own center stone, making them a popular choice for 'upgrading' inherited gems or personalizing affordable jewelry.