Antique diamonds pendant cross rose pattern Flemish 1860-1870

A touch of history ... Large pendant cross called "Vlaams Kruis" or Flemish cross in silver on top and backed with 18kt yellow gold, set with 15 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 center pattern represents a rose with its leaves, fixed bail.

The distinct devotion of the Flemish people for Madonna, well-spread especially in Antwerp, Belgium in the 18th and beginning of the 19th Century, seems to be the source of inspiration of the rose motif, the symbol of the Virgin Maria.

The technique "silver on gold" 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.

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

Antique jewelry object group: pendants

Country of origin: Most probably from Belgium, Flanders.

Style: Victorian
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Period: ca. 1860-1870
(events and facts in 1870)

Source of inspiration: Christianity

Theme: Cross

Material: Silver on top and backed with 18K yellow gold (see explanation on silver on gold).
(more info on precious metals)

Technique: The rose cuts are set on foil. This is a special technique that was used to bring the lustre of the diamonds to its best quality.

Diamonds: 15 senailles. A senaille is a simplified rose cut diamond, a small diamond chip with perhaps a few polished facets. We do not have the weight of these diamonds which is normal in our trade when it comes to senailles.

Birthstones: Diamond is the birthstone (or month stone) for April.
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Hallmarks: No trace.
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Condition: very good condition
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Dimensions: height approximately 6.00 cm (2.36 inch)

Weight: 14.30 gram (9.19 dwt)

Reference Nº: 09306-4320

See also our:
victorian jewelry, victorian pendants, pendants, christian jewelry, crosses, jewelry with rose cut diamonds, latest acquisitions,
antique jewelry, estate jewelry, vintage jewelry or modern jewelry

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