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.
Preliminary identification
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
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375