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Costa Rican Gold Alloy Ancient Design Frog Necklace
Introduction:
This one is a mystery. Here’s what I know:
This necklace was purchased in San José, Costa Rica in 2015. We found it in a fine jewelry boutique in the Avenida Central District — the beating heart of the Costa Rican capital of San José. I do remember the salesperson telling us that the necklace was “in the design of the Chiriqui culture” which is a pre-Columbian Panamanian civilization.
And, indeed, if you go online, you will see similar gold frogs dating from between 600 A.D. until the arrival of the Spaniards at the beginning of the 16th century. This beautiful necklace captures the ancient design quite well, and it’s bright gold color mimics the pure gold of the ancient objects.
Frogs were often used in the gold work of Costa Rica and Panama, as there are many species found in this tropical region. Additionally, the frog has historically been a symbol of wealth and abundance. It can mean luck, rebirth, purity, opportunity, dreaming and healing. And because frogs lay an enormous quantity of eggs, they also denote fertility.
The “Gold”:
Although this necklace was pricey (my wife fell in love with it so it was a done deal), I was told that, though it does contain gold, it is considered a “gold alloy.” Hence the bright yellow gold which gives the appearance of an 18k or 22k gold. Also, even though she wore it frequently, the color has not diminished from the day we bought it. When we decided to let it go, I actually took it in to our local jeweler who told me exactly that — “this is some sort of gold alloy.” It actually made me smile that these many years later it is still a bit of a mystery. He said, “It’s quite beautiful, but I can’t say it’s all gold.” The best he could do was to say that it definitely contained gold, but how much and what else it was comprised of, he had no idea.
So I decided to list it as just that: a gold alloy Costa Rican necklace. What’s funny is that, because my wife does have some 22k gold pieces, everyone always assumed that this necklace was too, particularly when she wore them together. It was our little secret for many years.
The Design:
Comprised of gold beads and seven gold frogs, the necklace is very striking. The frogs dangle from beautifully- and solidly-constructed gold rings. Their frog eyes stand up, leaving no doubt that they are indeed the tree or pond dwelling amphibians. They hang freely and rest flat against the body, and the almost choker-length (16 inches) is perfect for this design, with the frogs resting just a couple inches below the neckline (see photo).
The “beaded” design also means that the necklace bends freely — no stiff links but rather a soft and liquid-like flow. And yet, for it’s shorter length, the necklace is substantial, weighing in at 50 grams! (Another reason it gives the appearance of real gold — it’s weight).
And, by the way, you can, if you choose, move the frogs closer together or farther apart. They won’t move on their own, but if you gently maneuver them over the beads you can space them as you like them. However, my wife always liked them as they are; perfectly spaced to create a “crown” at her neckline.
The Maker:
More mystery. Each frog and the lizard-like dangling charm on the clasp is stamped with (what appears to me to be) the initials “J.C.” and a copyright “R”. I may be mistaken, but I have included a close up of the signature so you can make your own guess. I searched Costa Rican designers and jewelry designers in general for hours, but could not identify the maker. Whoever it was was quite thorough, because each frog and the clasp is firmly stamped with both marks. I just wish I knew who it was that took such pride in their creation. But so it goes with jewelry acquired through the years, especially from foreign locations: Often the maker gets lost in either the years or the distance.
The Clasp:
The necklace has a toggle clasp closure that is quite effective. The toggle fits smoothly through the ring but can in no way come undone. It’s easy to put on and impossible to lose. In fact, it’s a type of clasp that I’ve always loved. Simple, easy, and safe.
To sum up this necklace, I would say it’s a piece that, while affordable, looks and feels like 22k gold. It can be worn with a t-shirt and jeans (my wife often did) or to a black tie affair. And if someone mistakes it for near solid gold (and no doubt they will), just smile and say “Thank you!”
Measurements and Weight:
Weight: 50 grams (1.75 ounces)
Length: 16 inches (40 centimeters)
Frog Size: 5/8 inch (1.5 centimeters)
