Antique silver necklace

Antique Silver Necklace (Art Deco)

Category: Art Deco Jewelry
Medium: Silver (likely sterling or 800 silver)
Style: Handcrafted Filigree
Date Period: Circa 1920s–1930s (Art Deco Era)
Condition: Good – no visible breaks or missing parts, mild tarnish from age
For Sale: No (not currently offered for sale)

Description and Authentication

This is a handcrafted antique silver filigree necklace, likely dating from the Art Deco period (approximately 1920–1939). The necklace is composed of a series of hexagonal and round filigree medallions, each centered with a raised floral motif, and alternating links that feature dangling fringe elements—a characteristic decorative touch found in both Art Deco and traditional European filigree work

The intricate mesh-like design indicates hand-soldered silver wirework, often seen in Eastern European, Middle Eastern, or Mediterranean silver jewelry of the early 20th century. Countries such as Portugal, Italy, Greece, and Turkey were particularly known for producing fine silver filigree jewelry during this era.

Although the Art Deco period is typically associated with geometric, streamlined forms and bold materials, there was a parallel trend during the time that embraced ornate, Eastern-inspired craftsmanship, often carried forward from the earlier Art Nouveau period. This piece stylistically bridges both, leaning more toward traditional artisanal filigree than industrialized Deco jewelry.

Materials and Craftsmanship

• Material: Likely sterling silver (.925) or 800-grade silver
• Construction: Hand-formed wire filigree with soldered joints
• Clasp: Bar and loop clasp consistent with early 20th-century handmade jewelry
• Finish: Unpolished, showing natural age patina

If unmarked, silver purity testing or consultation with a jeweler is recommended to confirm whether the piece is sterling or a lower-grade silver alloy.

Value Estimate (2025)

Valuation Context

Estimated Value (USD)

Retail (Vintage/Antique Jewelry Store)

$180 – $350

Private Sale / Etsy / eBay

$120 – $250

Auction

$100 – $200

Insurance Replacement Value

$400

Note: If confirmed sterling silver and in confirmed Art Deco period with provenance or maker’s marks, value could increase by 25–40%.

Recommendations

• Authentication: A professional antique jeweler or gemologist can test for silver purity and possibly identify the country of origin based on clasp construction and filigree style.
• Conservation: Clean gently with a silver cloth; avoid dips or abrasives which could damage the filigree.
• Appraisal Use: For insurance or estate planning, an appraisal certificate from a certified gemologist is recommended due to the handcrafted nature and historical period of the piece.