Tahitian Black Pearl and White Gold or Sterling Silver Solitaire Pendant
Jewelry (Pendant) · Unidentifiable from image; contemporary commercial manufacture likely from a retail jeweler or specialist pearl house like Mikimoto or Honora.
Pattern: Classic Solitaire with Accent; non-specific collection pattern, widely produced as a staple fine jewelry design.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant)
Maker
Unidentifiable from image; contemporary commercial manufacture likely from a retail jeweler or specialist pearl house like Mikimoto or Honora.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or 14k/18k White Gold; centerpiece is a Tahitian cultured black pearl, possibly accented by small cubic zirconia or diamonds.
Dimensions
Estimated pearl diameter of 9mm to 11mm; total length approx 1.8cm including bail; estimated silver weight negligible (approx 1-2 grams).
Description
An elegant and timeless pendant featuring a single Tahitian black pearl suspended from an articulated metallic bail. The pearl displays a smooth surface and characteristic dark body color with subtle iridescent overtones. A single shimmering accent stone sits directly atop the pearl, bridging the gap between the organic gem and the sleek metal bail.
Key Features
Deep peacock-green/black luster of the Tahitian pearl; 'rabbit ear' bail design; singular accent stone placement for vertical emphasis.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or 14k/18k White Gold; centerpiece is a Tahitian cultured black pearl, possibly accented by small cubic zirconia or diamonds.
Finish & Decoration
Polished high-shine finish on the metal components; the pearl exhibits a metallic peacock overtone with high luster; setting features a small three-prong or bezel-set accent stone.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; would typically be found on the interior or back of the bail (e.g., '925' for silver or '14K' / '585' for gold).
Construction Details
Cast metal bail and setting; the pearl is likely half-drilled and secured with a peg and jeweler's epoxy to the finding.
Functional Features
Tapered rabbit-ear bail designed to accommodate a fine link chain (box, cable, or curb style).
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Pendant bail serves as the attachment point).
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial jewelry grade; clean solder points between the bail and the peg setting; accent stone is securely seated.
Authentication Indicators
The luster and color depth suggest a genuine cultured pearl rather than a 'shell pearl' or glass bead; verify marks on the bail with a 10x loupe for metal purity.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in French Polynesia (pearl origin), Japan, or China (jewelry assembly); mass-produced for global retail.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th to 21st Century); reflects modern minimalist aesthetic common in pearl jewelry since the 1990s.
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-2024; based on the standard bail design and the popularity of black pearls in contemporary fashion.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'modern classic' in jewelry; black pearls were once reserved for royalty due to their rarity before culturing techniques became widespread.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the pearl appears to have a clean skin with no visible pits or blemishes from this distance; metal shows light surface tarnish consistent with silver.
Value Estimate
$50 - $150 (if Sterling Silver/CZ); $300 - $800+ (if White Gold/Diamond), depending largely on pearl grade and metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a damp soft cloth; avoid perfume, hairspray, and household chemicals which can dissolve the pearl's nacre; store separately from metal jewelry to avoid scratches.
Similar Pieces
Akoya Pearl Pendants (usually smaller and white/cream); South Sea Pearl Pendants (usually larger and silver/gold colored); freshwater treated black pearls (often more purple/blue).
Interesting Facts
Tahitian pearls are the only pearls that are naturally dark; they are grown in the Pinctada margaritifera oyster in the waters of French Polynesia.