Antique 14k Gold Chrysoberyl Cross, 1700s Portuguese Crucifix Pendant, Georgian Jewellery, Baroque, Colonial Jewelry 18th Century Chrysolite

Antique 18th century 14k gold cross pendant adorned with stunning Chrysoberyls.

A Portuguese / colonial Portuguese rare piece of jewellery pendant with eight sparkly Chrysoberyls. 
The backs is 14k gold enclosed.

The body of the cross is crafted in warm high-karat gold (confirmed 14k - acid tested), and set with a series of shimmering green pale gemstones, known historically as “crisolitas,” now recognised as chrysoberyls.

Each arm of the cross is framed in delicate gold wirework, enclosing closed-back settings that house nine chrysoberyls. These are graduated in size, with the largest teardrop-shaped stone placed at the base, tapering upward into round and oval shapes, drawing the eye naturally toward the centre. At the heart of the cross is a finely chased gold rosette, a sunburst flower motif popular in devotional Portuguese jewellery of the Baroque and Rococo periods.

The pendant’s back is smoothly finished with 14k gold.

This exquisite jewellery piece is in good antique/used condition, with small signs of aging - which, given its age of over 200 years, in my opinion, only enhances its timeless appeal. Antique items are often pre-worn and may show some wear - please see the images for details.

The cross measures approximately 5.5 cm (including bail) x 2.8 cm and it weighs approximately 5.3 grams.

The chain on image 8 is just used as a reference. 

Chrysoberyl is a rare and rather underappreciated gem, long overshadowed by more familiar stones. Prior to the 18th century, it came almost exclusively from the southern tip of India, known as Ceylon at the time, and remained little known. Its popularity grew in the first half of the 18th century, when deposits were uncovered in southeast Brazil, at the time a Portuguese colony, sparking interest across Europe.

Portuguese 18th-century chrysolite jewellery is particularly rare and highly collectable, prized for its craftsmanship, scarcity, and historical appeal.

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Thank you.

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