A breathtaking Art Nouveau sterling pendant crafted by Watson & Newell Co. at the height of the Belle Époque (c.1900–1915). This exquisite sterling piece captures the movement and romance of the era with sweeping acanthus scrolls, pierced openwork, and a beautifully sculpted blooming rose rising through the center.
Solid, weighty, and adorned with Watson’s hallmark crowned shield with “W” alongside STER., this is an exceptional example of early 20th-century American silver artistry. The detail, the patina, the craftsmanship — this is collector-level sterling that simply isn’t made anymore.
Description
This exceptional pendant is crafted in solid sterling silver and features deeply molded Art Nouveau relief work. The central rose — framed by hand-pierced openings — rises forward with dimensional petals and trailing leaves. Flowing “whiplash” curves and sculpted acanthus scrolls frame the piece, capturing the signature elegance of the Nouveau era.
The pendant retains its original double connector loop, a hallmark of antique chatelaine and fob attachments, offering both historical authenticity and versatile styling options.
Beautifully patinated, substantial in hand, and bearing the iconic Watson & Newell crowned-W hallmark, this pendant is an heirloom-quality treasure.
Details
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Maker: Watson & Newell Co.
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Era: Art Nouveau (c.1900–1915)
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Material: Solid Sterling Silver (.925)
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Finish: Original antique patina
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Design: Pierced rose motif, acanthus scrolls, raised relief
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Hallmark: Crowned shield with W + auxiliary circle mark + STER.
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Weight: approx. 11.58–11.62 g
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Measurements:
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Construction: Heavy, relief-molded sterling; hand-pierced openwork
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Pendant Type: Antique pendant / chatelaine drop / fob drop
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Condition: Beautiful antique condition with natural patina retained
Collectors Note
Watson & Newell was one of America’s distinguished sterling manufacturers during the late Victorian and Art Nouveau periods. Their crowned-W hallmark appears on some of the most collectible ornamental silver of the era, including chatelaine pieces, vanity items, and decorative pendants.
Authentic, hallmarked Art Nouveau sterling pendants are increasingly scarce — especially those with pierced roses and intact original attachments. This example is both rare and exceptionally well-preserved, making it a standout addition to any curated jewelry collection.
