Back to ColorBack to GroupBack to DecadeBack to all Items

Damascene Bird and Floral Medallion Necklace

Classification:

391.451

Date:

April 3, 2025

Category:

Necklace

Type:

Statement

Collection:

Unsigned Vintage

Color:

Black

Era:

1970s

Material:

Made in/by:

Spain

Hallmarks:

Primary Market:

North America

Style:

Damascene

This necklace features a large circular damascene-style pendant with a central bird surrounded by floral scrollwork, framed by scalloped gold-tone filigree. The pendant hangs from a 22-inch gold-tone chain with flat textured links. No visible hallmark.

About this item

This necklace features a large circular damascene-style pendant with a central bird surrounded by floral scrollwork, framed by scalloped gold-tone filigree. The pendant hangs from a 22-inch gold-tone chain with flat textured links. No visible hallmark.

Similar Items:

Additional Information

Damascene jewelry—characterized by blackened steel inlaid with gold—originated in Spain and reached peak export popularity during the mid-20th century. This example is not true damascening but rather a decorative revival using costume-grade materials and screen-printed or etched motifs to imitate the look. The bird-and-flower scene was a common motif, tapping into European romanticism and decorative arts nostalgia. Pieces like this were mass-produced for the tourist and gift market, especially in Toledo and distributed through souvenir shops and catalogs. The oversized medallion, ornate edge work, and long chain reflect the 1970s trend of dramatic pendant necklaces styled over high-neck blouses or knits.

Read Our Reports