Damaskos Byzantine 18K Gold Cross with Granulation

This Byzantine cross from Damaskos is defined by two techniques working in concert: a martillé finish and applied granulation. The martillé surface — hand-hammered to create a fine, light-catching texture — gives the gold an almost matte, velvety quality distinct from polished or satin-finished pieces. Granulation dots the cross with controlled precision, each tiny gold sphere fused individually to the surface.

The martillé technique involves striking the gold repeatedly with a specialized hammer to produce uniform micro-indentations across the surface. Granulation, one of the oldest goldsmithing methods known, dates to antiquity and requires fusing spheres of gold without visible solder — a process that demands exceptional control over heat and materials. The piece is cast and finished in 18K gold and weighs 4.1 grams, giving it substantial presence on the body.

Damaskos is an Athens-based atelier working within the Byzantine and Archaic goldsmithing traditions. Each piece is made entirely by hand by a small team of master craftspeople whose techniques are drawn from ancient Greek and Byzantine workshops. This cross functions equally as a devotional piece, an heirloom, or a considered addition to a curated jewelry wardrobe. It is designed to be worn daily and to improve with age.