Egg-Form Enamel Pendant with Diamond Cross and Interlocking Motif
France, late 20th century
Gold, translucent golden enamel, glass gemstones
This refined egg-shaped pendant draws upon a long lineage of European symbolic jewelry, uniting religious iconography, luxury craftsmanship, and the enduring egg form—an ancient emblem of rebirth, protection, and continuity. The pendant is finished in luminous translucent golden enamel, its subtly ribbed surface creating depth and a softly glowing, almost vitrified effect.
One face is centered with a diamond-set cross, composed of five closely set stones arranged in a classical cruciform configuration. The cross, long associated with faith, guardianship, and spiritual devotion, is rendered here with restraint and precision, allowing the brilliance of the diamonds to punctuate the warm enamel ground.
The reverse features an applied interlocking double-C motif in white metal, introducing a modern emblem of elegance and prestige that contrasts with the pendant’s archaic egg form. This juxtaposition reflects late-20th-century French jewelry’s ability to merge ancient symbolism with contemporary identity and design language.
Suspended from a simple gold loop, the pendant’s compact, tactile form suggests it was intended to be worn as a personal talisman—close to the body—rather than as a purely decorative jewel. The dual imagery of sacred cross and luxury insignia creates a layered narrative of faith, protection, and refinement, making the piece both intimate and visually arresting.
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