The detailing to this vintage gold shell pendant is truly lovely and it even opens too! It would make the perfect pendant for someone who loves the beach or considers themselves a little bit of a mermaid.
The scalloped shell is detailed to both sides, there are even pretty foral details in places too. One side of the shell is hinged and actually actually lifts open. We think this shell section could possibly be antique and was likely once part of a pendant. We think it may have once had a piece of glass inside to act as a locket window that held a lock of hair or photograph of a loved one behind it (this is now missing).
The pendant is made of gold that tests as at least 9ct. The pendant is unhallmarked but tested. The shell section measures approx 17.9mm tall (not including the jump rings or chain) by approx 16mm wide by approx 5mm deep. Including the chain section, the pendant measures approx 47mm tall and weighs approx 2.35g in total.
Condition - The pendant is in good vintage condition but does show significant signs of age and wear, including surface wear to the gold and some tarnishing in places. There are noticeable scratch marks inside and also some dark solder marks to the inside and also the outer edges of the shell section. One side of the shell has a small hole to it that we think may have once been part of a fastening to keep the hinged side of the shell closed. The fastening part is no longer there and now the shell just pushes closed and can lift open when worn. As mentioned above the area inside no longer has a glass compartment/window but this could likely be reinstated by a jeweller. The jump rings that connect the chain to the shell section are currently pushed closed. As mentioned above, we think the shell section could possibly be antique and at some later point in time the chain section has been added to repurpose the piece into a pendant. Some of the chain links are a little misshapen. This is an unusual piece which seems to have been modified over time and does show its age and signs of wear over the years but still holds a lot of charm. Please see photos.
*Please note the chain and box pictured are not included in the sale but the charm will be shipped in a new presentation box and pouch*
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Vintage gold opening shell pendant
All items are carefully wrapped and packaged in a gift pouch. In the UK, we always post items via Royal Mail's Special Delivery service which is fully tracked and insured. Items sent outside of the UK are sent via Royal Mail's International signed for service, which offers insurance for up to £250 and tracking.