Carved Celadon Jadeite Butterfly Pendant with 14K Gold Bale
Unbranded · Jewelry & Watches > Necklaces & Pendants
Era / Decade
Mid-20th Century (1950s-1970s) based on the floral gold bale design and the specific style of low-relief carving commonly exported from Hong Kong or Taiwan during this period.
Material
Natural Jadeite (Celadon/Pale Green hue with cloudy white inclusions) and solid 14K Yellow Gold (assumed based on the floral pinhead style, though requires testing). The jade appears to be 'Type A' or 'Type B' natural stone.
Condition
Very Good. The jade shows no major chips or fractures. The gold bale is intact but shows minor tarnish/patina typical of age. The carving remains crisp.
Demand Level
Moderate. Jade has a niche but very dedicated following. Butterflies are an evergreen motif that typically sells faster than geometric patterns.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$85.00 - $175.00 (Low: $85 | Mid: $125 | High: $175 depending on gold melt weight and jade translucency)
Estimated Retail Value
$250.00 - $450.00 (comparable new artisan carved jade with gold settings)
Comparable Sales
Similar carved jade butterfly pendants with 14k gold fittings on eBay consistently sell between $75 and $150. Large, more translucent 'Apple Green' versions can fetch $300+.
Description
This exquisite vintage pendant features a large, hand-carved jadeite disc in a soft celadon green. The carving depicts a stylized butterfly or moth, symbolizing longevity and joy. The stone is semi-translucent with natural mottled inclusions. It is topped with a decorative 14K yellow gold floral-shaped bale and jump ring.
Key Features
Hand-carved natural stone; solid gold hardware; large statement size; timeless butterfly motif which is highly collectible in Asian art and vintage jewelry circles.
Authenticity Indicators
Confidence level: Medium-High. The cold temperature of the stone, the irregular natural 'cloud' inclusions, and the specific style of the gold finding are consistent with vintage jade exports. It does not appear to be glass or plastic 'costume' jade.
Flaws to Note
Minor surface reaching inclusions (natural to the stone); light oxidation on the gold bale; missing a neck chain.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (for the vintage/handmade audience), eBay (best for reaching international jade collectors), or Ruby Lane (if verified as high-quality Type A jade).
Selling Tips
Use a backlight in one photo to show the translucency of the jade. Mention the weight in grams. Clean the gold bale gently with a jewelry cloth to make the 14k shine. Keywords: Vintage, Jadeite, 14K, Carved, Butterfly, Celadon, MCM, Estate Jewelry.