Rare 18 karat gold filigree cross from Oaxaca. Circa 1800’s. The filigree work in this cross is out of this world. 

Filigree is a form of intricate metalwork used in jewelry and other small forms of metalwork.

In jewelry it is usually of gold and silver made with tiny beads or twisted threads, or both in combination, soldered together or to the surface of an object of the same metal and arranged in artistic motifs. It often suggests lace and remains popular in Indian and other Asian metalwork. It was popular as well in Mexican, Italian, French and Portuguese metalwork from 1660 to the late 19th century.

I originally thought this cross was Portuguese but since have seen one similar to it, in Oaxaca. A substantial collector’s piece worthy of a high end jewelry collection.

.40 ounces of gold

Length including bail is 3 1/4 inches

Width is 2 inches 

Height is 1/2 inch