Sterling Silver Pendant Chain
These sterling silver pendant chains range from Victorian and Edwardian designs to Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern pieces.
Sterling Silver Pendant Chain
A sterling silver pendant chain brings together decorative pendants and wearable lengths of silver, appearing frequently in forms such as necklaces, watch chains, and fob medals.
Makers utilised various periods from the nineteenth century through the mid-twentieth century, encompassing Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Scandinavian Modern styles.
Buyers encounter forms ranging from simple curb link chains with dog clips to intricate necklaces set with gemstones or enamel.
How they were made
Craftsmen forged these items primarily from solid sterling silver and silver, often incorporating natural stones such as amber, jade, malachite, moonstone, and amethyst.
Techniques included piercing, engraving, and combining silverwork with coloured enamel or ceramic elements like Wedgwood jasperware.
Some chains double as portable fire hazards, holding tiny silver striker tinder boxes ready for an antique spark.
What varies in quality
Quality rests on the weight and substance of the silver links, alongside the precision of hallmarks and the finesse of engraved or pierced details.
The choice and setting of natural stones or enamel work distinguish standard production pieces from finer examples designed during the Arts and Crafts or Art Deco movements.
G Hoppe·Georg Jensen·Crisford and Norris·WH Haseler·Liberty and Co·Dorrie Nossiter
The Sterling Silver Pendant Chain Glossary
- Sterling silver
- An alloy containing a high proportion of pure silver alongside other metals for durability. It serves as the primary material for these chains and pendants.
- Fob
- A short strap, chain, or medallion attached to a pocket watch. Many survive independently as pendants or collection pieces.
- Dog clip
- A spring-loaded clasp used on watch chains and necklaces to secure fobs or pendants. It provides a practical fastening mechanism.
- Vesta
- A small pocket box designed for holding matches. Some examples are adapted or worn as silver pendants.
Sterling Silver Pendant Chain: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sterling silver pendant chain?
A sterling silver pendant chain combines a wearable silver chain with a suspended element such as a locket, stone, or medal.
These items span multiple eras including the Victorian period and the mid-century modern era.
How can I date my silver chain?
Dating relies on stylistic clues such as Art Deco geometric lines or Victorian engravings, alongside official hallmarks.
Maker marks and date letters stamped into the silver provide precise information regarding the year of manufacture.
What stones are found on these pendants?
Pendants often incorporate amber, jade, malachite, moonstone, amethyst, and opal set within silver mountings.
Enamel work and paste stones also appear frequently across Edwardian and Art Deco designs.