Diamond and gold French cross

Diamond and gold French cross in rose 18 karat gold. Large cross with floral openwork decoration. A flower formed of rose-cut diamonds blossoms in the center of the religious pendant. The diamonds form the petals of the flower, they are setted on silver. The upper part is later than the cross and is richly decorated with a rose-cut diamond set in claws. Early 20th century pendant, probably from the Provence region, France.

Unreadable hallmark, acid tested for gold 18 karats

Dimensions (including setting) : 6 cm x 3 cm
Total weight of diamonds : 0,09 carat

Condition : slight dents, the upper part is slightly more pink than the cross.
Weight : 4.31 gr

Historical point: this cross could be the so-called “Mistralienne” cross, created towards the end of the 19th century during the revival of Provençal pride inspired by the “Félibrige”, a regionalist association founded by Frédéric Mistral (1830-1914). Mistral was an defender of the Provençal language and literature. These crosses are mainly made of openwork gold and set with rose-cut diamonds or sometimes with pearls.

For more information on these jewels, see Michael C.W. Fieggen’s book on the Bijoux des Français.

**The pendant is sold without the chain**