This large silver pendant consists of two elements, that can move individually. The top is a delicately open-worked elongated triangle, decorated with floral motives and set with small rose-cut diamonds. From this hangs a cross pendant, made up from six round, puffy settings set with table-cut diamonds. Originally, these types of crosses were worn on a long, black velvet ribbon. The top still has two large bales at the back, which were used to thread this ribbon through.
The table-cut is one of the earliest diamond faceting styles. The shape – which is named after the large flat facet on top, resembling a tabletop – is derived from the original, cubic crystal shape from an uncut diamond. Therefore, it was a relatively easy shape to facet a diamond in, and one of the first shapes discovered when man decided to enhance the beauty of a diamond by polishing its facets. The table-cut was invented in the 14th Century and remained popular up to the 18th Century. After this, the rose-cut and the predecessor of what we now know as the brilliant-cut became very popular, making the table-cut nearly obsolete in 19th- and 20th Century jewels.
The design of this cross, with four little 'rays' interspersing the four arms of the cross, is known as a Flemish cross. This style was very popular in current Belgium and the Northern regions of France in the 18th- and 19th Century. The open-worked top element is a design that was used often in the region of Picardy, north of Paris. I therefore believe that this is where this cross originates from.
A similar pendant is part of the collection of the Victoria & Albert museum, inv.no. 840-1901.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 62 x 38 mm / 2.44 x 1.50 inches.
Weight: 11.94 grams.
Age: Mid-18th Century, also known as the Georgian era, circa 1760s.
Material: The cross does not carry any hallmarks but has been acid tested as being silver.
Condition: In good antique condition, with some wear, consistent with its age. All diamonds appear to be original to the piece. The foils behind the diamonds have discoloured over the centuries, which gives them a slightly greyish look. There is a small hole at the back of the central diamond in the cross. One rose-cut diamond, in the small flower in the bottom of the top element is missing.
Read how to take care of rose-cut diamond jewellery here.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes. This shop is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from taxes in most countries, buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties.