Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This bold studio jewelry piece features two geometric cabochons of landscape chrysocolla or boulder opal matrix, seamlessly joined by a hand-fabricated knuckle hinge. Crafted in higher-purity.950 silver rather than standard sterling, the pendant articulates fluidly when worn, suspended from a beaded snake chain.
Story
Handcrafted during the late-20th-century studio craft revival, this pendant transforms raw mineral strata into wearable sculpture. Its.950 silver mark signals a purity higher than standard sterling, common in Andean and master artisan workshops.
Maker / Origin
The piece bears a circular hallmark stamped '950', indicative of high-grade artisan silverwork commonly found among skilled silversmiths in Peru, Chile, and select European and American studio movements. Without an attributed maker monogram, it stands as an exceptional one-off studio piece prioritizing mineral beauty and sculptural ergonomics.
Condition & Value
Very good vintage condition with rich, undisturbed natural patina and surface tarnish on the silver backplate and chain. Natural matrix fissures and veins are inherent to the stone. The natural patina adds desirable character and should not be aggressively polished.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.