Antique 19th C. Topaz Cross Pendant

The citrine has often been mistaken or substituted for the more precious, rarer and expensive topaz. There are two main differences when discerning by eye the difference between the two. First, topaz is significantly more refractive: that is to say that it tends to be more lively and shimmering. Second is the color: good topaz exhibits from some angles beautiful peachy hues with much more fire and life than the citrine which can be flatter overall.

Those two rules of thumb can be put to test with this beautiful 19th century topaz cross pendant motif. Large oval topaz gems have been set into 14k yellow gold open back crimped and shaped bezels to create a cruciform design. A centered floral form of yellow gold balances the gold spheres places on the arms of the cross. The original oval topaz bale remains intact.

Condition: Excellent; very light wear to several gems as expected with age and use.

Measurements: 2-1/6 inches (5.4 cm) in length including bale and 1-5/8 inches (4.1 cm) without by 1-5/16 inches (3.2 cm) in width by more than 3/16 of an inch (0.5 cm) in depth. This antique pendant has a weight of 9 grams.

Date: Circa 1840 – 1850