Details
“Christmas 1914” - perhaps the most poignant Christmas in modern history - is delicately engraved on the reverse of this small antique Edwardian diamond cross. It marks the first Christmas of the First World War: a moment when early optimism that the conflict would be “over by Christmas” had given way to a far harsher reality.
This silver and 18ct gold cross was likely gifted as a parting token of eternal devotion, with twelve hand-cut old mine diamonds glittering eternally across the front. A husband or son - perhaps an officer - may have placed it into the hands of a beloved wife or mother at Christmas before returning to the front, offering both comfort and faith during a time of separation. While such gifts were being exchanged at home, the remarkable Christmas Truce unfolded along the Western Front, where soldiers briefly laid down their arms, stepped into No Man’s Land, and met to play football and exchange gifts of their own.
A rare and evocative collector’s piece, this diamond cross pendant is complete with a fine 18ct chain and its original heart-shaped box of faded cream velvet and silk, bearing the prestigious Royal Warrant of J.W. Benson of London beneath the lid. Over a century later, this museum-quality piece remains in excellent condition and deserves to be treasured once more, with its poignant story kept alive.
WEIGHT: Pendant 2.1 grams – Chain 2 grams
MEASURES: Cross Height 29mm (inc. loop) x Width 14mm x Depth 2mm – Chain Length 18 inches x Width 0.5mm
METAL: Silver/ 18ct Gold (Tested)
STONES: Diamonds (approx. 0.05ct each – 0.60ct total)
AGE: Edwardian. (Dated 1914)
MARKS: No marks, typical for items made before hallmarking legislation was introduced
CONDITION: Excellent, wear commensurate with age
ITEM NUMBER: 26-120
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