An Exceptionally Rare Ruby, Diamond and Gold Cross Pendant

Renaissance, circa 1580

The cross is embellished with 9 faceted rubies and 6 diamonds in rub-over settings.

Five diamonds are very early rose cuts, stones are flat and crudely polished with 6 facets.

The 6th diamond (at the top of the upper arm of the cross) is an old mine cut diamond. That stone is a later replacement of a lost ruby.

Both suspension rings are also of a later date. The rest of the cross is all original with no repairs.
Height without rings – 30 mm (1 3/16 in.)
The cross comes with a metal analysis report showing 28.74% gold content with additions of copper – 56.55%, silver – 14.40%, zinc – 0.176%, and nickel – 0.136%.