DAVID WEBB EMERALD, RUBY, JADE & GOLD CONVERTIBLE PENDANT & NECKLACE, est. 1970s

CROWING A MYTHICAL DRAGON IN JADE, AN EXTRAORDINARY TREASURE FROM A VERY IMPORTANT DAVID WEBB COLLECTOR

This remarkable necklace centres on a large hand-carved jade plaque depicting a stylised dragon: A mythical emblem of protection, wisdom, and power. Set in 18k yellow gold and accented with rich cabochon rubies and emeralds, the pendant combines sculptural artistry with DAVID WEBB’s American ingenuity and unparalleled design flair.

The chain is equally captivating: alternating jade links and green braided silk, each gold-framed station adorned with ruby cabochons. A tactile, luxurious composition that merges ancient symbolism with mid-century glamour.

Allegedly sold through Sotheby’s at some point in its probable five-decade journey, this piece embodies Webb’s mastery of culturally inspired high jewellery and his fascination with carved stones.

STYLE: Wear as the striking centerpiece of a minimalist neckline, or layer with gold torques for a modern collector’s mix. A true conversation piece.

Our Price Analysis

A VERY FAIR PRICE for a statement David Webb convertible pendant necklace combining carved jade with emerald and ruby accents in heavy gold and excellent condition. The asking price sits below several comparable David Webb necklace results in the European secondary market, especially for gem set and convertible designs.

• MATERIAL VALUE: At 115.65g, this is a substantial jewel. The carved jade centre, together with emerald and ruby accents, adds additional material value beyond the gold floor.

• DESIGN VALUE: David Webb’s market premium is strongly linked to recognisable sculptural design language and wearable engineering. Convertible functionality is consistently valued in Webb pieces, and an 8.5cm carved jade element creates an “object jewel” feel, closer to Webb’s collectible, statement jewels than to simple gold link necklaces.

• SECONDARY MARKET VALUE: Comparable David Webb necklaces that have sold in the European secondary market provide a clear reference band:
- Christie's sold a diamond, enamel, and jade necklace by David Webb for €69,300
- Christie's sold a gold necklace by David Webb for €35,280
- Christie's sold a convertible set by David Webb for €60,480

COLLECTOR VALUE: David Webb has a documented collector base and an established auction footprint, with particular demand for bold, instantly recognisable forms and signed pieces. Signed, statement Webb pieces tend to be the most collectible, especially those with strong sculptural motifs and distinctive coloured materials like this one.

PRICE VALUE: This price sits just above the gold necklace result and well below the gem-set and convertible examples, positioning it attractively within documented European auction results.

Details & Features

BRAND & PERIOD: DAVID WEBB, estimated 1970s

MATERIALS: hammered 18k yellow gold, cabochon emeralds, row of cable links decorated with cabochon rubies, with a suspending carved jade pendant,

SIZE / DIMENSIONS: Necklace length: 30cm. Stone: width: 8.5cm. Please contact us for confirmed measurements.

WEIGHT: 115.65gr

CONDITION: Excellent

JWL AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEE:

• Signed DAVID WEBB and presented in original pouch 
• Hallmarks & makers' mark upon request
• Period 1970s estimate. Please message us for confirmation
• Seller Profile: This item is offered by a Trusted Dealer in Italy