The reference for this striking pendant comes from a bejewelled silver gilt cross made in about 1450–75. Designed to be worn on the chest near the heart, reliquary crosses such as this were the focus for meditation in the Middle Ages. Their protective power was highly valued. The original pendant, crafted by a German jeweller, incorporates various medieval stylistic influences with exquisite metalwork, colourful gemstones and pearls. It’s one of the star attractions of the V&A’s Jewellery gallery and an early Museum acquisition from the 1850s. A beautiful and skilful reworking of the past, this pendant draws upon timeless and precious relics to inspire, protect and enchant today’s jewellery wearer.