Vintage Sterling Silver Cross Pendant with Clam Shell Motif Christian Ancient

Vintage necklace featuring a magnificent cross crucifix pendant in sterling silver. Handmade unique design with iconic clam shell symbol of pilgrimage and spiritual journey into and out of this world. Excellent preloved condition. Comes with a 30” square box chain stamped Italy and 925. The chain itself has a couple kinks. The cross pendant approximately 2” x 1” has 925 stamp on the bail and hallmarks on the back which we cannot discern. An unusual piece for sure. Vintage Sterling Silver cross pendant with ancient symbolism of shells. One of the most notable examples of the use of the scallop shell in Christian architecture is the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Spain, which is adorned with shells and scallops inside and out, denoting the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. We are pretty sure that our Mom acquired this piece in Spain in the eighties.