Preliminary identification

Contemporary Chinese Bi-Disc Pendant Necklace in Dyed Agate

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A striking modern interpretation of the ancient Chinese 'Bi' disc, featuring a carved agate stone with dramatic red-and-white 'blood' marbling. The pendant is suspended from a traditional hand-knotted silk or nylon cord, utilizing intricate macramé techniques to secure the stone.

Story

Ancient Chinese culture viewed the circular disc as a symbol of heaven and eternity. This modern version uses dyed agate to mimic rare 'blood jade,' a stone once whispered to gain its color from the earth's vital energy.

Maker / Origin

While the specific workshop is unidentified, this piece represents the thriving contemporary lapidary and textile arts of China. These artisans blend thousands of years of jade-carving tradition with modern dyeing techniques to create high-fashion statement pieces accessible to a global market.

Condition & Value

The piece appears to be in excellent contemporary condition with no visible chips to the stone or fraying to the cord. Pristine condition maintains the full decorative value. Value is driven by the aesthetic appeal of the agate's marbling and the quality of the textile work.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.