Preliminary identification

Artisan Faceted Carnelian and Crystal 'Tin Cup' Necklace

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A striking 'tin cup' style necklace featuring faceted red semi-precious stones, likely carnelian or dyed agate, interspersed with bicone crystals on a hand-knotted black cord.

Story

Red has been the color of vitality and protection across cultures for millennia, often represented by stones like carnelian which were favored by ancient Egyptian royalty for their solar energy.

Maker / Origin

While the specific artist is not signed, the hand-formed spiral on the clasp is a hallmark of studio jewelry, where the maker treats every component, including the hardware, as a design element.

Condition & Value

The cord appears strong and the knots are tight, suggesting it has been well-cared for. There is some light oxidation on the metal clasp, which is consistent with sterling silver or silver-plated artisan components and can be easily polished if desired. Condition is excellent and does not detract from the value.

Full Research

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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

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD