Centuries of Opulence: Jewels of India

Krishna Pendant
South India
early 20th century
Diamond, ruby, emerald and pearl in 22K gold
12 x 10 cm.

The Hindu god Krishna is flanked by his two consorts, Rukmini and Satyabhama, in this padakkam (elaborate pendant). It is a true gem mosaic, with kundan-set rubies, emeralds and diamonds; the three faces are carved from emerald and ruby. This pendant was made to adorn a life-size temple statue of Lord Krishna.

Photo by Robert Weldon/GIA.