Contemporary Amethyst-Color Crystal and Sterling Silver Halo Pendant
Jewelry (Pendant) · Unidentified contemporary manufacturer; likely a mass-market fashion jewelry brand such as those found in department stores or specialty boutiques.
Pattern: Modern Halo Design; non-specific commercially produced fashion line.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant)
Maker
Unidentified contemporary manufacturer; likely a mass-market fashion jewelry brand such as those found in department stores or specialty boutiques.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) base with rhodium plating; central faceted purple glass or synthetic crystal; surrounding pavé-set colorless cubic zirconia accents.
Dimensions
Estimated 2.5cm height (including bale) by 1.8cm width; approximate weight 4-6 grams.
Description
An attractive sterling silver pendant featuring a large oval-cut amethyst-colored crystal at its center. The central stone is surrounded by two concentric tiers of shimmering colorless accents, creating a 'halo' effect that maximizes the piece's brilliance. The silver is finished with a protective rhodium coating to maintain a 'white gold' look.
Key Features
Double halo design; vibrant deep purple faceted stone; rhodium-plated sterling silver for tarnish resistance; generic commercial bale.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) base with rhodium plating; central faceted purple glass or synthetic crystal; surrounding pavé-set colorless cubic zirconia accents.
Finish & Decoration
Bright-cut pavé setting with a high-polish rhodium finish to prevent tarnishing; double halo border with milgrain-like edge detailing; Victorian-revival style center stone.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '925' or 'Sterling' on the reverse or the bale loop; may include a small stylized maker's logo or country of origin (e.g., 'CHINA' or 'THAILAND').
Construction Details
Machine-cast via lost-wax process; center stone held by four small prongs; accents are pavé-set; bale is a separate component attached via a jump ring.
Functional Features
Tapered rabbit-ear bale designed to accommodate standard chains up to 3mm in thickness; open-back setting to allow light to pass through the center stone.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Jewelry item); the bale serves as the attachment point for a necklace.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial jewelry quality; clean casting lines; well-aligned accent stones; machine-polished finish.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry consistent with modern machine-casting; '925' purity mark (implied); typical wear patterns of rhodium-plated jewelry where the silver underneath slightly warms in tone over time.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in a major jewelry hub such as Thailand, China, or India for the international retail market.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary (21st Century); utilizes a 'Halo' aesthetic which is a modern interpretation of early 20th-century jewelry styles.
Age Estimate
Circa 2010-2024; based on the specific cut of the center crystal and the mass-produced nature of the pavé setting.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury, where high-end jewelry designs (like the Princess Diana sapphire ring) are replicated using affordable materials for the mass market.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition; minor surface scratches on the silver reverse; crystals appear intact with no visible chips; light dust accumulation in the crevices.
Value Estimate
$25 - $65 USD; value is based primarily on aesthetic appeal and retail brand rather than raw silver weight or gemstone value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled toothbrush; avoid silver dips as they can damage the crystal's foil backing or the rhodium plating; store in a soft pouch.
Similar Pieces
Swarovski crystal pendants; Pandora halo charms; department store 'fine-fashion' silver collections.
Interesting Facts
The 'Halo' setting became a dominant jewelry trend in the early 2010s because it makes the center stone appear larger and more brilliant than a solitaire setting.