In the 17th century, new ways of cutting gems, particularly diamonds, led to a new style of jewellery throughout Europe, in which the gems themselves had greater prominence. This pendant, made from sheet gold cut and engraved in a complex openwork floral design and set with facetted diamonds in closed settings, is typical of that trend. This specific pattern, known as a laça (meaning lace bow), was popular in Portugal throughout the 18th century, and continued in use in the 19th century, when it became part of the traditional costume. Similar pendants were made in Spain but the little bridge over the loop which holds the lower pendant is typical of Portuguese work.