A fine Byzantine gold pendant featuring a teardrop shape and a ridged cylindrical suspension loop. The large central cabochon garnet is set within a gold bezel, rendered with fine filigree. The frame coils into a small loop at each side of the pendant, which may have once held additional precious or semi-precious stones. The reverse remains unworked, some earthy encrustations are visible on the surface. Byzantine jewellery was a full continuation of the Roman traditions. Production in the old jewellery centres of Alexandria and Antioch gave way to an increased production in Constantinople. In the Byzantine Empire jewellery played an important role. It acted as a way to express one’s status and as a diplomatic tool. Measurements: Circa H 1.6cm x W 1.0cm Weight: 0.89g Provenance: From an Ex Japanese gentleman's (deceased) private collection, formed 1970s-2010.