Georg Jensen Pomegranate Key Ring Number 42, Sterling Silver and Red Glass
Jewelry / Accessories - Key Ring · Georg Jensen (Copenhagen, Denmark), founded 1904. Renowned for pioneering the 'Silver Age' of Scandinavian design, Jensen is a premier name in high-end silver craftsmanship known for organic, naturalistic motifs.
Pattern: Pomegranate (also known as No. 42), designed by Georg Jensen. Part of the iconic Fruit and Flora series introduced in the early 20th century.
Type
Jewelry / Accessories - Key Ring
Maker
Georg Jensen (Copenhagen, Denmark), founded 1904. Renowned for pioneering the 'Silver Age' of Scandinavian design, Jensen is a premier name in high-end silver craftsmanship known for organic, naturalistic motifs.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) and red glass (often referred to as 'ruby' or 'oxblood' glass beads). The silver comprises the cast pomegranate charm and decorative separators; secondary materials include a black cord and a steel or silver-plated split ring.
Dimensions
Pendant length approx. 3.5 cm (1.4 inches); total length with beads/ring approx. 8-10 cm. Estimated silver weight: 15-20 grams.
Description
A stunning example of Georg Jensen's organic design, this key ring features the iconic Pomegranate No. 42 motif. The pendant showcases a split pomegranate revealing a cluster of seeds, paired with vibrant red glass beads that echo the juice of the fruit. The dark patina of the silver creates a moody, sophisticated contrast against the 'fire-glow' of the glass.
Key Features
Distinctive 'split fruit' design, signature Jensen oxidation, 'X-pattern' silver bead separators, and the specific use of red glass beads which are highly sought after by Jensen collectors.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) and red glass (often referred to as 'ruby' or 'oxblood' glass beads). The silver comprises the cast pomegranate charm and decorative separators; secondary materials include a black cord and a steel or silver-plated split ring.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized sterling silver finish. This characteristic Jensen technique uses sulfur to darken recessed areas, creating depth and highlighting the three-dimensional pomegranate seeds (drupes) and leaf veins. The style is Art Nouveau/Jugendstil.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically marked on the back of the pendant or the silver bead with 'GJ' or 'Georg Jensen' in a dotted oval, '925 S' for silver purity, 'Denmark', and design number '42'. Marks on this specific piece may be obscured by tarnish or located inside the silver cap.
Construction Details
The pomegranate is lost-wax cast for high detail, then hand-finished and oxidized. The silver beads/caps are separate cast components threaded onto a cord with glass beads.
Functional Features
Features a split-ring for keys and a flexible cord connection to prevent rigid breakage. The pomegranate pendant serves as a tactile fob.
Handle & Grip Details
The fob is intended as a tactile grip. The pendant is solid silver, while the decorative silver 'caps' are hollow or drilled to accommodate the cord.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality hand-finishing is evident in the lack of visible casting seams and the careful application of the patina to accentuate the botanical textures.
Authentication Indicators
The 'X' motif on the silver bead caps is a standard Jensen accessory component. The casting quality of the pomegranate drupes shows the necessary crispness of authentic Jensen molds rather than blurry 'after-casts'.
Origin & Manufacturing
Copenhagen, Denmark. Manufactured at the Georg Jensen Silversmithy, adhering to strict Danish silver standards.
Era & Period
Original design from the early Art Nouveau/Skønvirke period (c. 1910s); this specific iteration of the key ring became popular in the late 20th century (Modern era).
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990 based on the cord assembly and bead style. While the design is from 1918, use in this specific key ring format is a mid-to-late 20th-century application.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of high-art silver design into everyday luxury objects. Jensen's work democratized Scandinavian modernism for an international market.
Condition Notes
Good condition with heavy surface tarnish (oxidation). The glass beads appear intact without chips. The silver pendant shows minor surface wear consistent with use as a key fob. Rating: Very Good (considering age and utility).
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. Value is driven by the presence of the red glass beads and the popularity of the No. 42 design pattern.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid silver dips as they will strip the intentional oxidation in the recesses. Hand-wash glass beads with mild soapy water only.
Similar Pieces
Jensen Acorn Pattern Key Ring (more geometric), Jensen Moonlight Blossom Key Ring (floral). Competitors include Tiffany & Co. sterling fobs, but they lack the specific Scandinavian motif of the Pomegranate No. 42.
Interesting Facts
The pomegranate motif was originally used by Jensen for large hollowware pieces, like the famous No. 196 Tureen. It was scaled down for jewelry and accessories due to its popularity.