Traveller's Amulet - Vintage 10K Gold 'Saint Christopher' Pendant & 14K GF Chain (VP251)

Traveller's Amulet - Vintage 10K Gold 'Saint Christopher' Pendant & 14K GF Chain. This wonderful pendant is crafted from 10K yellow gold, hallmarked 10K.  The chain is crafted from 14K gold fill , hallmarked 1/20 14K. The lovely pendant is a circular shape, with a satin finish, and a high polished border.  It also has a Saint Christopher raised design, which is well defined and still crisp. The back of the pendant is smooth and polished, with the perfect patina. The bale is round shaped, and substantial enough to support the medallion. The chain is a classic belcher link design, looks perfect with the pendant The chain features a spring ring clasp, which is in perfect working order. This gorgeous vintage pendant would make a great gift for that special someone or addition to your collection. 

Comments: Lovely raised decoration, and detail. 

Traditionally, St. Christopher is best known as the patron saint of travelers. His legend is that of a tall ferryman in the third century who agreed to carry a child across a river. The heavy child turned out to be Christ with the weight of the world upon his shoulders.

In addition to being the patron saint of travelers, Saint Christopher is believed to protect people from epilepsy, lightning, storms, pestilence, and floods. Many soldiers also pay tribute to Saint Christopher by wearing his medal or carrying a prayer card with them.

Gold was generally used for a couple thousand years solely to create things such as jewelry and idols for worship. This was until around 1500 BC when the ancient empire of Egypt, which benefited greatly from its gold-bearing region, Nubia, made gold the first official medium of exchange for international trade.

The history of gold-filled jewellery traces back to early 19th century England, where this technique was patented to create semi-precious and better-quality custom jewellery during the Victorian Era.

As long as gold filled pieces are well cared for, they can last a lifetime. Gold plated pieces, on the other hand, can last up to a year if kept away from water, wear, and heat. It's also worth mentioning that gold filled pieces with lower karat weight (9-14k) may be more durable than pieces with greater gold content. Victorian gold filled jewelry can last for centuries. 

Measurements: Pendant (including bale) 18.00 mm x 12.00 mm      Chain 18"

Weight: 2.40 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: Pendant: Canada          Chain: Ireland 

Date: Circa 1980