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MAYA NECKLACE WITH JADE ZOOMORPHIC PENDANT AND OPAL INLAY
Maya Necklace with Jade Zoomorphic Pendant and Opal Inlay
Culture: Maya Civilization
Date: c. 600–900 CE (Late Classic Period)
Materials: Carved jadeite, opal inlay, metal (gilded metal)
Dimensions: Pendant length approx. 7–8 cm; chain length variable
Necklace featuring a pendant carved from jadeite in an elongated zoomorphic form, possibly representing a crocodile, lizard, or serpent—animals with deep symbolic meaning in Maya cosmology. The jade surface is pierced with three circular holes and decorated with incised stepped and linear patterns that may suggest scales or ritual markings.
One end of the pendant is enclosed in a textured metal fitting set with an oval cabochon opal. The opal’s shifting iridescence contrasts strikingly with the rich green of the jade, creating a visual focal point. The pendant is suspended from a chain composed of alternating round and elongated bar links, enhancing the necklace’s refined and balanced design.
Provenance:
Likely from the Maya lowlands, in present-day Guatemala, Belize, or southern Mexico.
Maya Necklace with Jade Zoomorphic Pendant and Opal Inlay
Culture: Maya Civilization
Date: c. 600–900 CE (Late Classic Period)
Materials: Carved jadeite, opal inlay, metal (gilded metal)
Dimensions: Pendant length approx. 7–8 cm; chain length variable
Necklace featuring a pendant carved from jadeite in an elongated zoomorphic form, possibly representing a crocodile, lizard, or serpent—animals with deep symbolic meaning in Maya cosmology. The jade surface is pierced with three circular holes and decorated with incised stepped and linear patterns that may suggest scales or ritual markings.
One end of the pendant is enclosed in a textured metal fitting set with an oval cabochon opal. The opal’s shifting iridescence contrasts strikingly with the rich green of the jade, creating a visual focal point. The pendant is suspended from a chain composed of alternating round and elongated bar links, enhancing the necklace’s refined and balanced design.
Provenance:
Likely from the Maya lowlands, in present-day Guatemala, Belize, or southern Mexico.
