What Is a Pendant? Meaning, Materials & Everything You Should Know

Jewellery has always been a form of self-expression, and among all accessories, pendants hold a special place. Minimal yet meaningful, pendants can elevate an outfit while carrying personal, cultural, or emotional value. But what exactly is a pendant, and what makes materials like silver-plated brass so popular today?

Let’s break it down simply and stylishly.

What Is the Meaning of a Pendant?

The meaning of pendant comes from the Latin word pendere, which means “to hang.” In jewellery terms, a pendant is an ornament that hangs freely from a chain, cord, or necklace.

Pendants can be:

• Symbolic (religious, spiritual, or cultural)

• Decorative (designed purely for style)

• Personal (initials, logos, or custom designs)

Unlike necklaces that are complete pieces on their own, a pendant is usually the focal element that can be styled in multiple ways—on chains, threads, ribbons, or even as a brooch.

In modern jewellery, a pendant is a versatile accessory that adapts to personal style. You can wear the same pendant differently depending on:

• Chain length

• Metal finish

• Occasion (daily wear vs statement styling)

This flexibility is why pendants are considered timeless; they evolve with trends while keeping their core identity intact.

Understanding Silver Plated Pendant Designs

A silver-plated pendant is crafted by coating a base metal (often brass) with a thin layer of silver. This process gives the pendant the appearance of solid silver while making it more accessible and versatile.

Why Silver Plated Pendants Are Popular:

• Elegant silver finish at a lower cost

• Lightweight and comfortable for daily wear

• Ideal for contemporary and minimal jewellery designs

• Works well with both ethnic and modern outfits

Silver plating allows designers to experiment with bold shapes and artistic details without making the piece overly heavy or expensive.

What Is Silver-Plated Brass?

Silver-plated brass refers to brass jewellery that has been electroplated with silver. Brass is widely used in jewellery because it is:

• Durable

• Easy to mould into intricate designs

• Long-lasting when properly finished

When silver plating is added, the result is a refined piece that balances strength and sophistication.

You’ll often see terms like:

• Brass silver-plated

• Silver-plated brass

• Brass silver-plated pendant

All of these mean the same thing: a brass base with a silver outer layer.

Does Silver-Plated Brass Tarnish?

A very common question is: Does silver-plated brass tarnish?

The honest answer is yes, it can, but slowly and naturally.

Here’s what you should know:

• The silver layer may oxidize over time, just like real silver

• Brass underneath can react to moisture if exposed

• Tarnishing depends heavily on care, climate, and usage

How to Reduce Tarnishing:

• Store pendants in a dry, airtight pouch

• Avoid water, perfume, and sweat contact

• Wipe gently with a soft cloth after wearing

• Don’t store with other metal jewellery

With proper care, a silver-plated brass pendant can maintain its shine and character for a long time.

Why Choose Brass Silver Plated Pendants?

Brass silver-plated jewellery is ideal for those who appreciate thoughtful design without compromising on durability.

Key benefits include:

• Affordable alternative to solid silver

• Strong base metal for long-term use

• Ideal for statement and experimental designs

• Suitable for everyday wear and gifting

Whether minimal or bold, brass silver-plated pendants strike the perfect balance between durability and elegance.

The Balav Hanger Pendant: Design with Meaning

At Balav, jewellery is created with intention and identity at its core. The Hanger Pendant is a signature piece that reflects the brand’s minimalist design language and symbolic storytelling.

The hanger pendant is crafted in brass with silver plating, combining the strength of brass with a refined silver finish. This silver-plated brass pendant is designed to hold structure while offering a premium, understated look. It comes as a pendant-only piece, giving complete freedom to style it with a chain, rope, or even as a brooch.

True to Balav’s philosophy, the hanger pendant is not just an accessory; it’s a statement of individuality, craftsmanship, and modern expression.

Final Thoughts

So, what is a pendant? It’s more than just jewellery, it’s a statement, a story, and a reflection of personal style. Understanding the meaning of a pendant, knowing materials like silver-plated brass, and being aware of whether silver-plated brass tarnishes helps you make informed and lasting style choices.

A thoughtfully designed silver-plated pendant, like the Balav hanger pendant, becomes something you’ll reach for again and again, styled your way, every time