Amber neckless
This is an amber necklace without the chain. Appears to be mounted in silver with some gold inlay. Has two gemstones about one quarter inch diameter. Piece of Amber is 2 in long 1 and 1/4 in wide and 1/2 in thick. Appears to have visible insects in the Amber. This was a gift given to my mother-in-law by her brother who was Robert Magahey, a Hollywood costume designer in the late 50s through the 60s. With movie credits such as East of Eden and the rat pack. When Bob passed away much of his estate was donated to the Smithsonian. He was extremely eccentric and quite the collector. This is why we thought we should probably have this looked at to find out its value.
Please see the comments in description
Inherited
Yes
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
It is a beautiful amber pendant. Such vintage amber pendants are being offered at auction on a regular basis.
The amber has a beautiful warm colour, the mounting is probably silver and the two gemstones on the top are probably amber in another colour and polished and cut as cabouchon stones. Amber comes in many colour variations, but these two stones look like amber too. The pendant dates from the early 1900s but the amber is ofcourse older. I am having a hard time seeing the insects but think I may have spotted both of them. This is much easier to see in real life where there is no camera flash. It is a lovely piece of jewellery that probably would attract the attention of both collectors and dealers if it came up for auction. However pricewise amber that has been made into jewellery is not in the highest price level at the moment.
The estimate provided is for a well-advertised specialised online jewellery auction, where I believe the amber pendant has the best chance of realising its fullest potential. However, there is no measurement for the sentimental value you might attach to the lovely amber pendant. Retail "asking prices" can be higher and vary.
Please let me know if you have any additional questions. I’m happy to help.
Thank you
