Holy Thorn Necklace

<p>This range of jewellery has been inspired by detail from the Holy Thorn Reliquary c. 1390-1400. The original piece is made from gold, enamel and precious stones and featured in the 2011 Treasures of Heaven exhibition. <br /> <br />The original was commissioned by a member of the French Royal family to house a single thorn from the relic of Christ's Crown of Thorns, and was purchased in 1239 by St Louis, King of France.</p>

Exclusive to the British Museum, a necklace inspired by a detail from the Holy Thorn Reliquary.

This striking pendant is made from 24 carat gold-plated pewter and features Swarovski crystals in place of the rubies and sapphires which adorn the original.

The Holy Thorn Reliquary is an absolutely exquisite artefact which now sits within the British Museum’s collection. Made in c1390 in France, it is a 30cm tall ornament fashioned from gold and decorated with enamel and various precious stones. It features 28 figures, including Jesus, Mary, John the Baptist and the twelve apostles surrounding one long thorn, believed to be a relic of the Crown of Thorns. The star that inspired this pendant is positioned at the top of the ornament, and sits behind an enamelled figure of God, the father.

Created by Jean, Duc de Berry, the Holy Thorn Reliquary was gifted to the British Museum as part of the Waddesdon Bequest.

A stunning piece of jewellery inspired by a sensational historical artefact.