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Qing Carved White Serpentine Pendant

About the Item

This is a fascinating and beautiful late Qing period Chinese white serpentine and an agate bead pendant. The hardstone is gorgeously carved in a rather unusual fashion, where the stone was "scooped out" leaving raised ridges to define the character. The shòu symbol has been worn for centuries as a symbol to represent longevity. The original bail has been replaced with a more contemporary one made from 14K yellow gold. But the rest of the metal hardware is original, including the crimping beads and hook closure. These components are made from bronze. The large agate beads show wear but the piece is so old, whatever might have once been rough is now smooth, like sea glass. The beads and jade are suspended from a tightly braided cord of natural fiber. I am unable to determine with 100% certainty the composition of this cord. I believe it is horse hair but it could possibly be silk as well. It is in remarkably fine condition. The necklace measures 18" in length. The jade measures 56mm x 35.78. Truly an exquisite piece, I believe the jade was carved in the second half of the 19th century, around 1880. All the stones are natural and untreated.
  • Metal:
  • Stone:
  • Stone Cut:
  • Weight:
    56.35 g
  • Dimensions:
    Length: 20 in (508 mm)
  • Style:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Circa 1820
  • Condition:
    Replacements made: Original bronze bail was replaced in the past with a 14K gold one.
  • Seller Location:
    Southbury, CT
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU1589114291982
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