Reliquary Cross Pendant Adorned In Vermeil With Eleven Amethysts – 19th Century

Reliquary cross pendant in vermeil adorned with eleven amethysts – 19th century

A striking and elegant ecclesiastical-style cross pendant, crafted from gold-plated sterling silver ( vermeil ) and adorned with eleven faceted amethysts, arranged symmetrically along the four arms.

Description

With a striking presence, this cross stands out for the architectural simplicity of its setting, which contrasts with the deep brilliance of the stones, whose hues range from intense violet to purple.

Each stone, of varying oval shapes, is set in a closed setting, accented by a fine beaded border.
The larger central stone marks the intersection of the four arms.

The tips are adorned with delicate leaf motifs in relief, while four quatrefoil motifs, arranged around the center, enrich the composition with Gothic-inspired decoration.

The distinctive feature of this cross lies in its central compartment, concealed on the reverse side.
This compartment consists of a small circular receptacle with a hinged lid, adorned on the outside with an engraved cross pattée.
Opening it reveals a gilded interior cavity—currently empty—intended to hold a small religious memento or possibly a relic.

This design links the object to pendant crosses used as reliquaries, combining precious adornment with personal devotion.

An eyelet at the top allowed this cross to be worn suspended from a chain or cord.

Given its historicist aesthetic, neo-Gothic ornamentation, and religious character, this piece can be dated to the second half of the 19th century.

The cross is presented in an antique case lined with ivory satin and ochre velvet, the exterior of which is covered with a dark red fabric.

Condition:

Appears to be in good overall condition, with an antique patina, signs of wear, and slight alterations to the gilding, attesting to its age. All eleven stones are present. The central compartment opens, and its interior is empty.

An interesting piece of religious goldsmithing, straddling the line between devotional jewelry and a reliquary cross, remarkable for the richness of its ornamentation and the intensity of its violet gemstones.

Dimensions: 12 cm x 8 cm

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