Overview
A stunning example of 'Bethlehem Pearl' work, featuring a meticulously hand-pierced mother-of-pearl disk set in a high-purity 950 silver frame.
1Identify
Preliminary identification
Jerusalem 950 Silver & Hand-Carved Mother-of-Pearl Brooch-Pendant, c.1950s
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Story
Franciscan monks in the 14th century first introduced the art of mother-of-pearl carving to the Holy Land to help local artisans create religious souvenirs for pilgrims.
Maker / Origin
While the specific workshop is not named, this piece comes from the storied tradition of Palestinian shell carvers.
Condition & Value
The silver shows a lovely natural patina consistent with age, and the mother-of-pearl appears remarkably intact with no visible chips to the delicate pierced sections. Value is driven by the high silver content (950) and the intact nature of the delicate shell carving.
Research
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