Circa 1970 Oswaldo Guayasamín Kinetic Citrine Pendant

Circa 1970 Oswaldo Guayasamín Kinetic Citrine Pendant

Dating to circa 1970, this sculptural 18KT gold pendant was designed by renowned Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín (1919–1999). Better known internationally for his painting, murals, and sculpture, Guayasamín also worked in jewelry, translating his strong geometric vocabulary into wearable objects. 

A raised, polished border defines the large triangular form, surrounding a richly textured gold field. Across its surface, eleven natural citrines totaling more than seven carats are bezel-set in individual articulated mounts. Arranged in descending rows, the warm golden stones create an orderly geometric pattern within the triangle.

Each citrine is suspended independently, allowing the gemstones to shift and move as the pendant is worn. Their movement changes both their angle to the light and their relationship to the textured gold beneath them. What initially appears to be a strict geometric composition therefore becomes fluid in motion.

The pendant is signed Guayasamín. A chain is not included.

Kinetic jewelry incorporates movement as an intentional part of its design. In this pendant, Guayasamín doesn't merely attach movable gemstones for decoration. He creates tension between two opposing ideas: the triangle and orderly arrangement provide structure, while the articulated citrines refuse to remain completely still. Other documented Guayasamín pendants from the period likewise employ geometric forms and independently moving elements.