Cross Pendant | Antique Cross Pendant

This substantial bloomed gold and pearl cross pendant dates to the late Victorian period (circa 1880-1890). Known as a Treflee or Budded cross, this type of cross contains a trefoil or triple scallop edge. The trefoil edge is said to represent the Trinity, the 12 apostles, or the teaching in 1 Cor. 13, "Faith, Hope, Love: The greatest of these is love."

This cross is unmarked, but acid tests for 14k gold. It has what is known as a "bloomed" finish that was quite common in the Victorian period. Jewelers "bloomed" gold by dipping karat gold (e.g. 10k, 14k) into a boiling mixture of acid, water, and saltpetre to burn off any surface alloys in the metal and create a pure 24k gold layer on the outermost surface of jewelry. The center of the cross is accented by a prong-set half pearl in a buttercup style mount.

This beautiful gold cross measures 3.2 inches (82mm) from top to bottom by 1.7 inches (43mm) across. It is in very good condition with only the most minimal wear to the bloomed gold finish.

(PLEASE NOTE: The handmade 18k gold chain in the photograph has already sold).

Materials: Gold.