A religious symbol crafted from naturally occurring pieces of the precious metal and suspended from a chain, often of the same material, represents a distinctive form of jewelry. The raw, irregular shapes of the gold provide a unique textural contrast to the traditional design of the cross. As an example, a prospector might discover a small piece of alluvial gold and commission a jeweler to create this type of devotional adornment.
Such a piece holds significance on several levels. Spiritually, it represents faith and devotion. Aesthetically, the inherent beauty of the unrefined metal adds value and individuality. Historically, the use of native gold speaks to the enduring human fascination with this element and its association with wealth, power, and the divine. This type of jewelry is often seen as an investment as well as a statement of belief.
