Captivating, Intriguing.

We are not strangers to spider jewelry. After all, the Victorians were fascinated by the natural world, adorning themselves with bejeweled and fantastical insects. This particular pendant — circa 1920 — sheds Victorian-era ornamentation for a streamlined and graphic representation of the spider weaving her web. We were immediately smitten.

The substantially sized pendant is geometric — an octagon created by linear, polished gold bands. The sculptural spider looms as large as her web — a dominant figure. Her body is a luminous white pearl and her eyes are rose cut diamonds. Her long, dimensional legs anchor each of the web’s eight points. The gold displays that highly desirable, original antique patina. Chef’s kiss.

The spider is a creature with many symbolic meanings — among them, wisdom, patience, perseverance, industriousness, creation, the feminine, and good luck. She is also the beloved titular character of a classic children’s book by E.B. White; Arachne, the young mortal who bested the goddess Athena in a weaving contest; the enigmatic representation of motherhood by the prolific sculptor Louise Bourgeois. To name a few. What does the spider signify for you?

Marked with quite worn marks that appear to be the Austro-Hungarian fox head for 14k gold (1872-1922), along with maker’s marks. (An Austro-Hungarian origin is supported by our subsequent discovery that the seller acquired this pendant in Vienna).

Chains and other pendant are not included.

14k, pearl, diamond.

Dimensions and weight:

● 38.8 mm long (including bail)/30 mm long (not including bail)

● 26.6 mm wide

● 7.7 mm deep

● 5.5 grams

Period: Art Deco (circa 1920)

*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present.

*For deliveries outside of the continental U.S., please contact us for shipping information.