Antique Vishnu Pendant, Enamel Vaishnava Mark (Tilaka), 45cm Sterling Snake Chain, 11.1 Grams

RARE:

This is a very small (width: 2cm (3/4"), traditional silver Vishnu Pendant with Symbols. Viṣhnu is one of the most significant deities in Hinduism. He is the Supreme God Svayam Bhagavan of Vaishnavism (one of the principal denominations of Hinduism). He he is conceived as "the Preserver or the Protector".

The center has a beautifully enamelled Tilak - Vishnu's vertical sectarian mark (vadagali), two vertical outer white stripes and a central red one. The tilak (Sanskrit tilaka, "mark") is a mark worn on the forehead or between the brows and other parts of the body for spiritual reasons.

On either side of the Tilak is the Panchajanya shankha (conch shell ) and the discus weapon (quoit) considered to be the most powerful weapon according to Hindu Religion Sudarshana Chakra.

The pendant has emerald, ruby and diamond coloured stones. I do not know if they are genuine stones - but they all have beautiful prong settings with the little metal claws gripping the stones tightly. There is very fine decorative silver wire beading as well.

This pendant was originally goldwashed over the sterling silver - and there is still residue in some places.

The pendant has been strung on an 45cm (18") Indian sterling silver 2mm snake chain with an S clasp for closing. The end of the chain unscrews at the cap to allow the chain to slip through a small bale.

Measurements:

Width: 2cm (3/4")
Height: 2cm (3/4")
Indian Sterling Silver Snake Chain: 45cm (18")
Weight: 11.1 Grams (0.390 oz.)
Material: Tested High Grade Silver 92.5%