Antique diamonds pendant cross Flemish silver gold 1850-1870

A touch of history ... Antique diamonds pendant cross Flemish silver gold 1850-1870.



Highly decorated pendant cross called "Flemish cross" in silver on top and backed with 18K gold, set with rose cut diamonds in close setting. The rose cuts are set on foil, this is a special technique that was used to bring the luster of the diamonds to its best quality. The cross is articulated with hidden system to a rose pattern with fixed bail.

This type of cross was worn on a long silver chain and was a very expensive gift worn by pretty women in the north of Belgium in the 19th century. This jewel is a fine example of the skill and craftsmanship of jewelers in Antwerp in the 18th and 19th century. The city was well known for centuries for its wealth which resulted in sumptuous jewels set with diamonds.

Most of these crosses are now owned by the church or in private collections.

Object Group : pendants
Country of Origin : Although it does not carry any legible control marks we believe it is of Belgian origin.
Style : Victorian
Period : 1850-1870
Theme : Latin cross - There exist several types of crosses, and the one this pendant represents is a Latin cross on which, according to Augustinus, Christ was crucified.
Material : Silver on top and backed with 18K gold (see explanation on silver on gold).
Technique : Silver on gold. This technique finds its origin centuries ago, when jewelers believed that only a silver mounting could render the true beauty of a diamond. Backing the silver jewel with a (thin) layer of gold was a practical precaution taken to avoid the silver jewelry leaving black stains on clothing or skin. Over the years, with the recognition (and thus use) of platinum as precious metal and the development of white gold the practical necessity to use bi-colored material became obsolete. The argument to use bi-colored metals became more an estetic then a practical one.
Ddiamonds : Eight rose cut diamonds. We do not have the weight of the diamonds which is normal in our trade when it comes to rose cuts.
Wweight : 15.90 gram (10.22 dwt)
Hallmarks : No trace
Condition : Excellent condition - (click here for our condition scale)
Measurements : 7.40 cm (2.91 inch) by 4.30 cm (1.69 inch)


When refering to this piece : Mention the following number: 01288-0726 or click here.


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