Floral Filigree Spherical Harmony Ball Locket (Vermeil Sterling Silver)
Jewelry - Locket/Pendant (Harmony Ball or Chiming Locket) · Unknown artisan (Likely Indonesian or Mexican provenance). This style is frequently produced in Bali, Indonesia or Taxco, Mexico by workshops specializing in filigree and cast silver jewelry for the export market.
Pattern: Faceted Floral Filigree; a ubiquitous world-craft pattern featuring five-petaled blossoms and leaf vine openwork.
Type
Jewelry - Locket/Pendant (Harmony Ball or Chiming Locket)
Maker
Unknown artisan (Likely Indonesian or Mexican provenance). This style is frequently produced in Bali, Indonesia or Taxco, Mexico by workshops specializing in filigree and cast silver jewelry for the export market.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) base with Vermeil (yellow gold plating). The base metal is silver, as indicated by the tarnish profile and construction, likely gold-plated to provide a high-polish finish.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 18mm to 22mm. Estimated weight: 5-8 grams. This is a standard size for a medium-scale necklace pendant.
Description
This charming vermeil sterling silver locket features an intricate cage-like design adorned with delicate five-petal flowers and scrolling vines. The spherical form opens via a side hinge to reveal a hollow interior, traditionally used to house a chiming bell known as a 'Harmony Ball' or 'Angel Caller.' The warm gold finish over the solid silver base provides a classic, opulent look while maintaining the durability of precious metal craftsmanship.
Key Features
Symmetrical floral openwork, functional spherical hinge, high-polish gold vermeil finish, and the 'harmony ball' locket capability.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) base with Vermeil (yellow gold plating). The base metal is silver, as indicated by the tarnish profile and construction, likely gold-plated to provide a high-polish finish.
Finish & Decoration
Polished high-shine gold vermeil. Decorative techniques include openwork casting, filigree-style floral motifs, and recessed oxidation within the floral centers to provide depth. The design language is influenced by the Neo-Victorian and Bohemian revival styles.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are not visible in the provided image; they are typically located on the interior rim of the opening or on the small jump ring/bail. Likely to be stamped '925' and 'MEXICO' or 'INDONESIA' if identifiable.
Construction Details
Cast construction in two hemispherical halves joined by a mechanical hinge and a tension clasp. The openwork is achieved through lost-wax casting or stamped filigree techniques. The jump ring is soldered for security.
Functional Features
Includes a functional barrel-style hinge and a snap-clasp mechanism. Designed to hold a chiming 'bola' brass ball or a small essential oil diffuser/lava stone. The bail is a fixed loop intended for a chain or cord.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; however, the clasping mechanism serves as the manual interface. The clasp appears to be a traditional 'snap' fit common in budget to mid-range silver jewelry.
Craftsmanship Details
Intermediate artisan quality. The openwork is well-balanced, though slight irregularities in the floral petal thickness indicate semi-manual casting and hand-finishing rather than high-precision industrial stamping.
Authentication Indicators
Solder points and casting seams are consistent with .925 silver jewelry production. The hinge design is a standard industry 'barrel' hinge. Caution: without a visible '925' stamp, the metal could be plated brass, but the quality of the hinge and bail suggests a silver core.
Origin & Manufacturing
Most likely Southeast Asia (Indonesia/Bali) or Mexico. These regions are the primary global producers of spherical silver filigree lockets using traditional casting methods adapted for modern retail.
Era & Period
Modern Era (late 20th century to contemporary). While the floral motif draws from Art Nouveau and Victorian aesthetics, the construction and finish are characteristic of late 20th-century artisan jewelry production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990 - Present. The condition of the gold plating and the mechanical hinge suggest a piece manufactured within the last 30 years.
Cultural Significance
A marriage of Western floral aesthetics and Eastern chime-jewelry traditions, representing tranquility and spiritual protection.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The gold plating shows light surface scratches consistent with wear. No visible loss of plating (brassing) is apparent, and the hinge appears aligned. Tarnish is minimal, restricted to the interior crevices. Grade: Excellent used condition.
Value Estimate
$30 - $75 USD. Value is driven by the silver weight and the condition of the gold plating; designer-signed versions can reach higher prices.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid silver dips or abrasive polishes, as these will strip the gold vermeil plating. Store in a soft pouch to prevent scratches to the gold surface.
Similar Pieces
Indonesian 'Bulan Bola,' Mexican Angel Callers, or Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso 'Olive Leaf' charms. The latter would have significantly higher hallmark detail and finer finishing at the casting gates.
Interesting Facts
In Indonesia and Mexico, these are known as 'Harmony Balls' or 'Bolas,' traditionally worn by pregnant women on long necklaces so the gentle chime could soothe the baby in the womb.