Mixed-Media Artisan Silver Charm Necklace with Leather and Semiprecious Stones
Jewelry (Necklace/Mixed Media) · Individually handcrafted artisan piece, likely from a boutique silversmith or specialized boutique brand like Chan Luu or Gas Bijoux, known for incorporating silver into bohemian-style leatherwork.
Pattern: Custom Artisan / Bohemian Eclectic style; not a mass-produced pattern. Production status is likely one-of-a-kind or limited studio run.
Type
Jewelry (Necklace/Mixed Media)
Maker
Individually handcrafted artisan piece, likely from a boutique silversmith or specialized boutique brand like Chan Luu or Gas Bijoux, known for incorporating silver into bohemian-style leatherwork.
Material
The metal components are most likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade tribal silver (approx. 800-900). Accents include genuine leather cord, turquoise, coral/red jasper, sea glass, and textile thread wrapping.
Dimensions
Estimated length of 18-20 inches (choker to princess length). Approximate weight including non-metal elements is 40-60 grams. Silver content alone estimated at 20-30 grams.
Description
A vibrant and textural statement necklace featuring cast silver charms and replica coins suspended from a quartet of thin leather cords. The piece utilizes color pops of turquoise and red coral to contrast against the dark, oxidized silver beads and the earthy tones of the leather. Intricate thread wrapping provides a 'found-object' aesthetic that is highly sought after in luxury boutique jewelry.
Key Features
Multi-strand leather cord; bell-shaped floral silver end caps; mixture of geometric and coin-replica charms; use of textile wrapping as a structural/decorative element.
Material & Composition
The metal components are most likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade tribal silver (approx. 800-900). Accents include genuine leather cord, turquoise, coral/red jasper, sea glass, and textile thread wrapping.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and antiqued finish to highlight relief. Decorative techniques include casting (silver beads and coins) and wire wrapping. Design style is Boho-Chic/Southwestern fusion with cast coin-replicas and floral-motif end caps.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Small '925' or 'Sterling' stamps likely located on the lobster clasp or the underside of the bell-shaped end caps. Traditional assay marks are unlikely given the contemporary artisan nature of the piece.
Construction Details
Assemblage construction. Silver elements are cast (centrifugal or sand cast); leather strands are hand-bundled with thread wraps. End caps are crimped or glued onto leather cordage.
Functional Features
Lobster claw clasp mechanism; multi-strand leather cord for flexibility; jump rings for charm attachment; bell-shaped end caps to tidy cord terminal ends.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Wearable item). Leather cords serve as the 'grip' for the neck; smooth finish for comfort against skin.
Craftsmanship Details
Good quality artisan work; the thread wraps are tight and symmetrical, and the cast silver elements show crisp detail without excessive pitting or casting flash.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of standard lobster clasps and machine-consistent leather cord suggests modern professional manufacture rather than ancient or folk-primitive origin. Silver should show non-magnetic properties.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely North American or Western European artisan workshop. Stylistic elements pull from Navajo/Southwestern and Mediterranean charm traditions.
Era & Period
Contemporary Artisan (late 20th to early 21st century). Historical indicators include the use of modern lobster clasps and 'Boho' revival design popular from 2005 to the present.
Age Estimate
Circa 2010-2023. Dating rationale is based on the condition of the leather and thread, which shows minimal fraying and implies a relatively modern age.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the 'Global Nomad' fashion trend which values the appearance of handcrafted, cross-cultural artifacts over traditional high-polish fine jewelry.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Leather remains supple without cracking; minor tarnish on silver elements (intentional oxidation); slight fraying on green textile thread is consistent with design aesthetic.
Value Estimate
$150-$350 USD depending on the specific artist's signature and the confirmation of sterling silver vs. silver plate.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid water as it will stiffen the leather and rot the thread. Use a silver polishing cloth for metal parts only; do not use silver dips or liquid cleaners as they will damage the stones and leather.
Similar Pieces
Chan Luu pearl/leather necklaces (higher use of silk), Sundance Catalog artisan silver (often more heavy on silver weight), local craft fair reproductions (often use silver-plated pewter rather than solid silver).
Interesting Facts
The 'coins' on such pieces are often cast from actual Greek or Roman drachma replicas to give the wearer a sense of 'world-traveler' history. This specific style was popularized by high-end boutiques in Saint-Tropez and Santa Fe.