Vintage Intaglio Reverse Carved Seahorse Aurora Borealis Glass Pendant Necklace
Unbranded (Likely unmarked Continental European or Mid-Century Boutique Fashion Jewelry) · Jewelry & Watches > Vintage Costume Jewelry
Era / Decade
1960s-1970s; Dating clues include the use of Aurora Borealis (AB) coating, intaglio carving techniques profile, and the curb-style gold-tone chain typical of mid-century costume pieces.
Material
Molded art glass with Aurora Borealis (AB) iridescent coating; gold-tone base metal chain and bail. The glass features a scalloped fan-edge and 'reverse carved' intaglio seahorse motif.
Condition
Very Good; The glass pendant appears intact without major chips on the focal face. There is minor age-appropriate surface wear and light tarnishing or 'greening' potentially occurring on the metal where it meets the glass.
Demand Level
Moderate; Steady demand for vintage beach/maritime themed jewelry and AB glass collectors. Higher demand in summer months.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$18.00 - $45.00 (Depending on platform and buyer interest in seahorse motifs)
Estimated Retail Value
$25.00 - $35.00 (Current comparable modern boutique pieces)
Comparable Sales
Similar vintage intaglio glass animal pendants (birds, horses, seahorses) typically sell for $22.00 to $38.00 on Etsy. Higher-end signed pieces (like Sarah Coventry) can reach $50+.
Description
Lovely vintage costume necklace featuring an oval art glass pendant with a stunning Aurora Borealis finish that shifts from amber to red and gold. The pendant showcased an intaglio (reverse carved) seahorse design that appears to float within the faceted glass. Suspended on a fine gold-tone curb chain with a vertical v-shaped bail. Approximately 18-20 inch chain length.
Key Features
Sought-after seahorse motif; Aurora Borealis (AB) finish provides high visual impact; unique reverse-carved intaglio technique; popular 'cottagecore' or 'oceanic' vintage aesthetic.
Authenticity Indicators
Construction matches 1960s production methods of glass makers like West Germany or Czechoslovakia, though lack of a hang tag makes it unidentified. High confidence in its status as a genuine vintage costume piece.
Flaws to Note
Light surface scratches on the glass surface; possible minor wear to the AB coating on the reverse side; oxidation on the metal bail which may require gentle cleaning.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage collectors), eBay (broadest audience), or Depop (younger demographic interested in 'Y2K' and vintage kitsch).
Selling Tips
Photograph against a dark background to make the Aurora Borealis colors pop. Use keywords like 'Mermaidcore', 'Oceanic', 'Intaglio', and 'Mid-Century'. Clean the metal bail with a dry polishing cloth before listing.