This is a vintage Asian yellow-orange jadeite pendant on an adjustable cord.
Besides the pendant, there are 5 larger beads on the cord and two small ones.
On the pendant itself, there are 2 small and 2 bigger beads as well.
All the gems feel cold to the touch and were tested as jadeite by a gem tester.
I think the motif of the pendant is a gourd and a leaf, which has meaning in Chinese/Asian culture. Gourds are often considered symbols of prosperity and health, while leaves can represent growth, renewal, and nature's beauty.
When placed against the light, the pendant is a bit transparent. The gourd part is darker and closer to light brown. The pendant is carved from one piece of gem.
The pendant is 2'' long and 1'' wide. The necklace is 23'' without the pendant.
The overall weight of the item is 22 grams.
I believe it is from Burma. Also, I know nothing about the master who created it.
As jadeite prices vary greatly by color, it is hard for me to determine what it is worth.
Excellent condition: no scratches, no chips, no cracks.
Item: Vintage Yellow-Orange…
Item: Vintage Yellow-Orange Jadeite Gourd Pendant Necklace
Owner: [Private Collection]
Category: Jewelry and Gemstones
Condition: Excellent
Description & Materials
This is a vintage carved yellow-orange jadeite pendant, intricately shaped into a stylized gourd and leaf motif. The pendant is suspended from a hand-braided dark cord interspersed with polished jadeite beads in matching tones. It includes:
Symbolism & Craftsmanship
The pendant’s gourd (hulu) and leaf motif is rich with meaning in Chinese culture. Gourds are associated with health, prosperity, and longevity, while leaves often symbolize renewal and harmony with nature. This piece likely served as both adornment and talisman.
The carving quality appears high, with delicate detailing, polished finishing, and a thoughtful cord integration. The lack of visible seams or glue around the drilled hole suggests skilled traditional craftsmanship.
Estimated Origin & Date
Valuation
Valuing jadeite depends heavily on translucency, color saturation, carving artistry, and market demand. Yellow-orange jadeite is less common than green or lavender varieties, giving this piece niche appeal.
Comparable vintage handcrafted jadeite necklaces with similar symbolic motifs tend to sell in the following range:
Recommendations
Thank you, my AI assistants…
Thank you, my AI assistants tell me that the price of this color jadeite is at least 50-70 USD per gram, without the value of work.
That’s a good point for…
That’s a good point for follow-up. The value of jadeite, especially colored jadeite like your yellow-orange pendant, can vary widely depending on color saturation, translucency, texture, craftsmanship, and market demand.
1. General Jadeite Color Price Ranges (per carat):
Color
Low Grade ($/ct)
Mid Grade ($/ct)
High Grade ($/ct)
Imperial Green
$500 – $5,000
$5,000 – $20,000
$20,000 – $100,000+
Lavender
$200 – $1,500
$1,500 – $5,000
$5,000 – $15,000+
Yellow/Orange
$50 – $300
$300 – $1,000
$1,000 – $5,000+
Black
$20 – $100
$100 – $500
$500 – $1,500+
White/Icy
$50 – $300
$300 – $1,200
$1,200 – $8,000+
These are approximate retail prices and can vary by region and seller.
2. Your Pendant's Yellow-Orange Jadeite
Based on your detailed description and the images:
Estimated Value Range (Retail/Collector Market):
Recommendation:
If you want a formal valuation or to sell at a higher tier, consider: