Islamic Calligraphy Sterling Silver Engraved Pendant
Jewelry (Pendant/Amulet) · Indeterminate Artisan Workshop; typical of Middle Eastern or South Asian silver bazaars including those in Egypt, Turkey, or India.
Pattern: Traditional Religious/Calligraphic; unique hand-engraved piece rather than a mass-market production line.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Amulet)
Maker
Indeterminate Artisan Workshop; typical of Middle Eastern or South Asian silver bazaars including those in Egypt, Turkey, or India.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or possibly Coin Silver (.800-.900). Composition is a metallic alloy primarily of silver with copper.
Dimensions
Estimated 3.5cm x 2cm; approximately 5-8 grams. Sized as a standard unisex religious medallion.
Description
This is a meaningful piece of silver jewelry featuring an octagonal plaque engraved with Islamic script, likely a verse from the Quran (such as Ayat al-Kursi) or a protective prayer. The framing is minimalist, focusing all attention on the sacred text. Its dark patina suggests it has been worn or stored for some time without polishing, giving it an antique character.
Key Features
Hand-engraved calligraphic text, clipped-corner rectangular geometry, and a traditional 'folder' bail construction.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or possibly Coin Silver (.800-.900). Composition is a metallic alloy primarily of silver with copper.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized satin finish with hand-chased/engraved Arabic calligraphy. Features an octagon/clipped-corner rectangular frame with a raised border.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Small stamp visible on the jump ring and potentially on the reverse (not fully visible), likely a '925' fineness mark or a regional Arabic hallmark (e.g., Egyptian lotus or Turkish tugra).
Construction Details
Die-struck or cast base plate with a hand-soldered bail and jump ring. The surface text is applied via manual engraving or chasing.
Functional Features
Hanging loop (bail) for attachment to a neck chain; the clipped corners prevent snagging on clothing.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Pendant bail is a basic tapered silver strip folded through a fixed rectangular loop.
Craftsmanship Details
Artisanal quality; the lettering shows the slight variations indicative of a human hand rather than a machine-guided laser.
Authentication Indicators
Solder color at the bail joint matches the base metal; hallmark placement on the bail is standard for Middle Eastern export silver; hand-tool marks are visible in the lettering.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Middle Eastern (Egypt or Jordan) or South Asian (India/Pakistan). Produced in a specialized jewelry workshop using traditional metal-smithing tools.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary with Traditional influences; late 20th to early 21st century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980–2010. Dating based on the style of the bail and the level of surface oxidation and wear.
Cultural Significance
Represents the fusion of Islamic art (calligraphy) with personal adornment, highlighting the status of silver as a preferred 'pure' metal in Islamic tradition.
Condition Notes
Good condition. Heavy tarnish/oxidation present in the recessed areas (desirable for reading the text). Minor surface scratches consistent with use. Structural integrity is solid.
Value Estimate
$30 - $75 USD. Value is based primarily on silver weight and the artistic value of the hand-engraving rather than a specific brand name.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Use a silver polishing cloth for the raised edges but avoid chemical dips to preserve the darkened text contrast.
Similar Pieces
Vintage Tiffany 'Notes' pendants (Western equivalent), high-end 22k gold Islamic amulets, or mass-produced laser-etched stainless steel versions.
Interesting Facts
In many cultures, carrying silver with sacred text is believed to provide spiritual protection (Ta'wiz) or serve as a constant reminder of faith.