18th-Century Diamond Cross
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An early French provincial devotional cross, dating to the second half of the 18th century. Crosses of this type were traditionally worn in regions of southern France, including Provence, Arles and the Southern Alps, often as part of regional dress, sometimes known as a Jeanette cross. Later 19th-century examples are more commonly encountered, particularly with rose-cut diamonds, making this earlier table-cut diamond example especially unusual.The cross is set throughout with table-cut diamonds in silver settings, likely backed with reflective foil in the manner of early diamond jewellery. The stones have a soft, candlelit brightness rather than the sharper brilliance of later cuts, with a central square arrangement of four table-cut diamonds forming the classic cross silhouette.The construction follows the established 18th-century method of silver on gold; the diamond settings are mounted on silver (a very thin layer above the gold) to enhance brilliance, while the rest of the pendant is crafted in rich 18K yellow gold. The silver bail has been added later. The pendant bears French control marks consistent with this construction, including an eagle mark for 18K gold and a swan mark indicating French 800 silver.The cross measures approximately 3.8 × 2.8cm and weighs 4.52g. Condition is very good for its age, with surface wear and patina consistent with an 18th-century devotional jewel. The diamonds remain secure, the form is well balanced, and the pendant is fully wearable. Chain not included.
An early French provincial devotional cross, dating to the second half of the 18th century. Crosses of this type were traditionally worn in regions of southern France, including Provence, Arles and the Southern Alps, often as part of regional dress, sometimes known as a Jeanette cross. Later 19th-century examples are more commonly encountered, particularly with rose-cut diamonds, making this earlier table-cut diamond example especially unusual.
The cross is set throughout with table-cut diamonds in silver settings, likely backed with reflective foil in the manner of early diamond jewellery. The stones have a soft, candlelit brightness rather than the sharper brilliance of later cuts, with a central square arrangement of four table-cut diamonds forming the classic cross silhouette.
The construction follows the established 18th-century method of silver on gold; the diamond settings are mounted on silver (a very thin layer above the gold) to enhance brilliance, while the rest of the pendant is crafted in rich 18K yellow gold. The silver bail has been added later. The pendant bears French control marks consistent with this construction, including an eagle mark for 18K gold and a swan mark indicating French 800 silver.
The cross measures approximately 3.8 × 2.8cm and weighs 4.52g. Condition is very good for its age, with surface wear and patina consistent with an 18th-century devotional jewel. The diamonds remain secure, the form is well balanced, and the pendant is fully wearable. Chain not included.
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