Antique Shibayama Wasp Pendant of 14k Gold and Sapphire

A fascinating pendant featuring a finely detailed Shibayama wasp or bee, originally created as an antique game piece dating to 1900. The intricate craftsmanship and naturalistic rendering reflect the refined artistry associated with Japanese Shibayama work, celebrated for its delicate inlay techniques and lifelike depictions of insects and flora.

The piece has been thoughtfully transformed into a wearable pendant by our jeweler through the addition of a 14 karat gold mounting and an elegant sapphire-set bail, allowing the original antique element to be preserved and appreciated in a new form.

The pendant measures 1.1 inches from the top of the bail to the bottom and 0.5 inches wide, with a weight of 1.55 grams, offering a delicate yet distinctive presence when worn. It is presented in great antique condition, with details crisp and surfaces well preserved.

Gemstone identification has been confirmed using Raman spectroscopy, a non-destructive analytical technique that provides a precise chemical fingerprint to verify authenticity.

Metal authenticity has been professionally verified using XRF (X-ray fluorescence) analysis and traditional jeweler’s acid testing, confirming solid 14K gold construction.