6th-8th century AD. A restrung necklace composed of graduated blue glass beads of mainly oblate form and six later gilt beads; a large gold expanding arm cross pendant with grooved arms, a raised cross-shaped cell to the centre with sky blue glass insert; modern clasp. See Wamser, L., Die Welt von Byzanz - Europas Östliches Erbe, München, 2004, p.310, items 512-513, for cross type; see also Wamser, L. and Zahlhaas, G., Rom und Byzanz. Archaologische Kostbarkeiten aus Bayern, München, 1999, p.196, item 273, for cross type.47.74 grams, 52cm (20 1/2"). Property of a London gentleman; previously acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s; formerly in a 1980s collection.