Portuguese 19.2k Gold Cross

[iridescentfire7]

I thought you guys would find this interesting. It’s a vintage gold cross made in Portugal. The stones are tourmalines and has handmade details throughout, including braided gold around each setting.

Something interesting to note is that Portugal had their own gold mixture, 19.2k (800/1000) parts gold. So 5% greater gold content than 18k. Not exactly sure why this was started, but it’s a point of pride for them. They scoff at anything lower than 18k; forget about the U.K.’s standard of 9k lol.

I am American (born and raised) but Im also part Portuguese/my family owns property in Portugal, so occasionally I find gems like these at little mom & pop jewellery stores throughout the country.

 

[Daisys and Diamonds]

my screen pales it out, does it look more yellow that 18K ?
it is very nice btw

 

[Garnetgirl]

Beautiful!

 

[iridescentfire7]

my screen pales it out, does it look more yellow that 18K ?
it is very nice btw

Its actually kind of a rosy yellow. Its not quite true yellow gold nor rose gold, but an in-between. Apparently, this is pretty common with higher carat vintage pieces.

 

[RRfromR]

Beautiful! Portugal is so magic, one of my favorite countries.

 

[Joanne10]

That’s a lovely cross!

 

[MakingTheGrade]

I’m going to Lisbon for a week soon and am really looking forward to some jewelry window shopping!

 

[iridescentfire7]

In Lisbon, I recommend ‘Joalharia Do Carmo’. I love their display cases and decor, it’s beautiful.