Vintage Faux Cinnabar or Bone Celluloid Pendant Necklace with Greek Key Border
Unbranded (likely a mid-century boutique or souvenir piece) · Jewelry & Watches > Vintage Costume Jewelry
Era / Decade
Late 1960s to Mid 1970s (The scale, flat bar link chain, and 'Chinoiserie' revival aesthetic are hallmark traits of this era)
Material
Gold-tone base metal (likely brass or electroplated alloy) with a molded resin or celluloid cream-colored insert. The insert mimics carved bone or ivory.
Condition
Very Good. The pendant shows minimal finish loss. The insert is intact without visible cracks. The flat bar chain appears straight, though the clasp should be checked for spring tension.
Demand Level
Moderate to Strong. Chunky vintage statement jewelry remains popular with enthusiasts of the BoHo and maximalist styles.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$28.00 - $45.00 (Current vintage market value for statement costume jewelry)
Estimated Retail Value
$15.00 - $25.00 (original 1970s retail equivalent)
Comparable Sales
Similar unbranded 1970s resin/fretwork pendants typically sell for $25-$40 on Etsy depending on the complexity of the chain. Signed pieces by Napier or Trifari would reach $60+, but unbranded pieces sit comfortably in the mid-range.
Description
Stunning vintage 1970s statement necklace featuring a large rectangular pendant. The centerpiece is a cream-colored, intricately perforated relief depicting floral motifs and a central character, likely faux-carved resin designed to look like bone or ivory. This is framed by a bold, gold-tone 'Greek Key' or fretwork border. It hangs from a stylized flat bar-link chain, a common design element of high-quality mid-century costume jewelry. Perfect for boho-chic or retro-glam styling.
Key Features
Bold 'Chinoiserie' 1970s aesthetic; Large scale statement piece; Intricate openwork 'carving'; Desirable flat bar link chain; Greek Key geometric Border.
Authenticity Indicators
The spring-ring clasp and the specific construction of the bar-links are consistent with production methods from the 1960s/70s. The lack of a 'China' stamp suggests it pre-dates modern 1990s mass-market imports. High confidence in vintage status.
Flaws to Note
Light surface scratching on the metal back from age; potential minor oxidation in the links. Faux bone material may have slight yellowing (patina) which often adds to vintage appeal.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage seekers), Poshmark (best for fashionistas), or eBay (best for collectors). Local vintage markets are also viable.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like '1970s Statement Necklace', 'Faux Carved Bone', 'Chinoiserie', and 'Mid-Century Greek Key'. Photograph against a plain black background to make the cream center pop. Mention 'Statement Piece' in the title.