Damaskos Byzantine 18K Gold Pendant with Emerald

This pendant centers on a single oval emerald, 4x3mm, framed by granulation — the ancient technique of fusing tiny gold spheres to a metal surface without solder. The surrounding gold carries a martillé finish, hand-hammered to create a softly textured, velvety surface that catches light without gloss. Together, the two techniques reference goldsmithing methods developed in the Byzantine period and refined over centuries of Greek workshop practice.

The piece is cast and finished entirely by hand in 18K gold, weighing approximately 5.8 grams. The granulation border is built sphere by sphere, a process that cannot be mechanized — each bead is placed and fused individually. The martillé surface is worked with a small hammer directly on the gold, giving every piece a finish that is subtly unique. The emerald is a natural stone, set in a hand-formed bezel that holds it flush with the granulation surround.

Damaskos is an Athenian atelier with decades of continuous practice in ancient Greek goldsmithing techniques. Their work draws directly from archaeological sources — Byzantine, Archaic, and Classical — translating historical forms into pieces made for wear. This pendant is suited to daily use: the martillé finish resists surface scratching better than a polished ground, and the low-profile bezel setting protects the stone. It wears equally well alone or layered with other gold pieces.