ANTIQUE VICTORIAN 9K GOLD MALTESE CROSS RUBY NECKLACE

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A Word About Shipping Feedback: We usually offer free shipping on individual items within the USA . On International shipments we work with our bidders to determine the best, safest, most affordable shipping method to their particular destination. We never charge a material or handling fee. Please remember this when you leave feedback. Thanks! Very Beautiful, Very Wearable Antique Mid 19th Century Victorian Double Sided 9K Gold Maltese Cross Pendant w/ Rubies c. 1850s-70 The Maltese Cross, or St. John's Cross, was the emblem of the Knights Hospitallers, a military and religious order originating at the Hospital of St John in Jerusalem in the 11th Century. Their original mission was to care for those on pilrimages to the Holy Land. Eventually, they became quite powerful and wealthy and were headquartered on the island of Malta. One story has it that the cross became popular as jewelry when one was given to Lady Hamilton, (mistress of Vice Admiral, Lord Horatio Nelson), by Alexander, Tzar of Russia, for her charitable works on Malta. In any case, over the years it showed up in various emblems and coats of arms across Europe, and was particularly popular in England during the mid 19th century. Victoria eventually incorporated it into a medal awarded for valor in both civilian and military circumstances. This particular piece is simply jewelry, but none the less lovely. The cross was cast, hand chased, and fabricated around an inner core of rope twist metal to give it stability. The inner core may be gold over brass. However the cross itself tests positive for 10k - though we suspect it is actually 9k. At 14k, the test goes negative. We rarely use acid testing, especially on a small piece such as this; but it was a case of needing to know - as much for dating as anything. We are not willing to take a second or larger sample to be any more precise. * Well executed, two -sided, three dimensional piece with meticulous construction * Each side centered with a prong set, hand faceted, natural ruby. Under a loup, they appear to be of nice quality. * Pendant is 3/4" across in both directions * We will not remove the stones to get accurate measurements. However they are approx. 4mm across. * 22" chain came with the cross, and appears to be hand made. Under a loup it looks like it is probably rolled gold over brass. However we have no way of dtermining whether it is original to the piece. It is however sturdy and in excellent condition. * Spring ring clasp - obviously not original, but in good working order. We are in the process of working into better quality and older jewelry. We research constantly and well, but we are not experts! Please message us on the eBay message board with any questions that will help you make an informed bid. * Beautiful Antique Condition. * Supersize any photo by clicking on the image This is an lovely piece that would make a great addition to your Antique jewelry wardrobe, or a wonderful gift. (Of course it would also be a great re-sale item in your antique store or vintage boutique). ************************ Overall Condition Vintage/Antique Good With No Known Damage or Wear Beyond That Which is Expected With, and Appropriate to, Age. Any Exceptions Will Be Noted in the Description Above ********************** Kenn takes highly magnified photos so you can see exactly what your are bidding on. Details & wear are more obvious in the photos than "In Person". Please use the super size photo feature. The photos are as much a part of the description as anything I can say.......BUT You should still read the description. We spend the time and energy to give you the resources to be very certain of what you are buying! We would also like you to know...... GIFT WRAPPING IS FREE All woulves1 individual items go out packaged appropriately for gift giving. If you buy a lot and want the separate items g... read more

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