Identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a striking Chinese export pendant featuring an openwork, molded glass insert designed to mimic carved turquoise. It depicts two confronted elephants with raised trunks flanking a central stylized tree or plant, set within a silver-colored metal frame decorated with beaded and twisted wire filigree.
Story
During the early to mid-20th century (Republic Period), China produced vast quantities of jewelry for the Western export market. 'Peking glass' was frequently molded and carved to simulate precious stones like jade, turquoise, and coral. The intricate wire filigree work is a hallmark of this era's export craftsmanship, blending traditional Chinese motifs with Western Art Deco tastes.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
Assuming standard vintage condition pending photo review. Value heavily depends on the integrity of the glass insert (absence of chips or cracks) and the condition of the filigree frame.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
The secondary market for Chinese export jewelry from the Republic period remains steady, appealing to collectors of Art Deco and vintage costume jewelry. Faux-gemstone 'Peking glass' pieces are popular, accessible alternatives to carved jade or turquoise. Complete necklaces with original chains or beads move quickly at a premium, while standalone pendants typically trade in the sub-$100 range on platforms like Etsy and eBay.
▲ Intricate wire filigree frame elevates the piece above unmounted glass pendants.
▲ Desirable Art Deco/Republic Period era attribution appeals to vintage jewelry collectors.
▲ Confronted elephant motif is a popular and highly collectible design element.
▼ Lack of an original period chain or bead strand limits the ceiling compared to complete necklaces.
▼ Unverified metal composition — if base metal rather than sterling silver, the value remains at the lower end.
▼ Unverified glass condition — any hidden chips or cracks would severely impact collectibility.
Best Venue
List on a broad secondary marketplace like Etsy or eBay, targeting vintage jewelry and Art Deco collectors. Price optimistically around $85-$100 if the glass is pristine and the metal tests as sterling silver. If the metal is a base alloy or the piece needs a chain to be wearable, expect a faster sale in the $40-$50 range.
Upside Potential
If the metal frame tests positive for sterling silver and the piece is paired with a period-appropriate chain, the value could push toward the $120-$150 range, bridging the gap toward complete necklace comps.