Gold Necklace with Gold Cross, Two Amethysts, and an Emerald Plasma
Unknown
6th–7th century · Gold, amethyst, emerald plasma · Medieval Art
The cross, chased into the gold ground, was originally the reverse of the pendant, with a cameo or carved gemstone on the front. As Christianity became the dominant religion in Byzantine society, Christian imagery was increasingly found on jewelry. Crosses appear by the fifth century; the Virgin Mary, saints, angels, and other holy figures became popular in the sixth century. The images were thought to protect the wearer, aid in prayers, and even perform miracles.
- Artist
- Unknown
- Date
- 6th–7th century
- Medium
- Gold, amethyst, emerald plasma
- Culture
- Byzantine
- Department
- Medieval Art
- Credit line
- Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
