First half of 19th century the Rose of Velay pendant

The Rose of Velay pendant is a traditional French regional jewelry from Le Puy-en-Velay, where this type of pendant is still worn today.  Normally it is set with one or two circles of stones, which are either in glass or garnets, the design of the goldwork among the stones varies but the basic form is like a thriving rose. For the pendant here is a fine and exquisite example of Rose of Velay with detailed gold filigree openwork set with flat cut garnets. The pendant is closed back and in perfect condition without dents. 

Le Puy-en-Velay, previous Le Puy, a city in southern France, was already an important Christian centre in the 4th century. In the 6th century, Le Puy became one of the main pilgrimage centers in France. During the Wars of Religion, in the latter part of the 16th century, it sided with the Catholic League.  It is also a starting point for one of the four traditional pilgrimage routes to Compostella.

As the assessment of an item's condition is highly subjective, please click and enlarge our photos to examine more detailed condition highlights for your judgment.