Marcus Tempus
Elegant, graceful and rich in historic character, this beautiful Antique Onyx Cameo Pendant celebrates the artistry of traditional cameo carving and the enduring appeal of fine Victorian and Edwardian jewellery.
Expertly crafted in 14ct yellow gold, the pendant features a finely carved onyx cameo, beautifully depicting a classical female profile in crisp relief. The striking contrast between the deep black onyx and the delicately sculpted white figure creates a timeless focal point, while a series of lustrous natural pearls frame the design with warmth and elegance.
Suspended from an ornate openwork gallery, the pendant is beautifully balanced with a graceful pearl drop, adding movement and refinement to this exceptional antique piece. The combination of warm gold, rich black onyx and glowing pearls creates a sophisticated palette that remains as captivating today as when it was first created.
Supplied on a 16-inch 9ct yellow gold chain, this one-of-a-kind pendant can be worn as a statement piece or layered with other treasured jewellery. Whether chosen for its history, craftsmanship or timeless beauty, it is a piece designed to be admired for generations.
Carefully selected for Antique Jewellery by Marcus Tempus, this pendant is a wonderful example of the craftsmanship and elegance that define the finest period jewellery.
Travel Through Time
Edwardian jewellery belongs to an age of elegance, optimism and graceful refinement. Designers used platinum to create airy settings that allowed diamonds and pearls to appear almost suspended against the skin.
Bows, ribbons, wreaths and garlands gave jewellery a softness inspired by lace, embroidery and eighteenth-century courtly ornament. The result was jewellery that looked delicate while demanding remarkable technical skill.
London & Paris, 1908
Platinum transformed diamonds, pearls and coloured gemstones into lace-like compositions filled with light.Edwardian jewellery may contain extremely fine platinum work, delicate milgrain, natural pearls, foil-backed stones or historic repairs. Avoid knocks, chemicals and unnecessary pressure around pierced settings.
Details to Discover
Pierced platinum and fine wirework allowed jewellers to create intricate, open designs that felt lighter than earlier jewellery.
Ribbons, swags, wreaths and bow motifs reflected the romantic neoclassical style associated with Edwardian and Belle Époque design.
Minute beaded edges softened the outlines of platinum settings, adding texture while helping diamonds remain the visual focus.
A Palette of Light
Platinum’s strength allowed settings to become finer, lighter and more open while securely holding diamonds and gemstones.
Old European, old mine, rose and small single-cut diamonds brought a distinctive hand-cut brilliance to Edwardian designs.
Natural pearls were especially prized and often paired with diamonds in necklaces, brooches, pendants and delicate garland jewels.
Sapphire, ruby, emerald, opal and other coloured stones could introduce restrained colour within predominantly white platinum jewellery.
Marcus Tempus Heritage Jewellery
Antique jewellery may show gentle wear, earlier resizing, replaced components or historic restoration. These details form part of its journey and are considered carefully during assessment.
We examine the condition of the setting, gemstones and principal components before an Edwardian or Belle Époque piece is offered for sale.
Dates and period descriptions are based on design, construction, materials, hallmarks and available evidence. Where an exact production date cannot be confirmed, we use the most appropriate period or style attribution.
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