Featured Unusual 19th Century Pendant: Cross with Star – Religious, Symbolic or Ceremonial?

I’m currently researching a rather unique late 19th-century pendant made in Vienna by the renowned firm C.F. Rothe & Neffe. It’s a large pectoral cross crafted in 14k gold and silver, set with numerous citrines and rose-cut diamonds. What makes it stand out is the addition of a star-shaped element attached to the top of the cross – not something I’ve commonly seen.


The piece seems too elaborate for simple devotional wear and might be associated with an order of merit, a religious office, or perhaps a noble or ceremonial function (possibly even a female order like the Order of the Star Cross?).


I’d love to hear your thoughts if anyone has come across similar items or symbolic combinations (cross + star) in either ecclesiastical or secular contexts.

It’s currently listed in an Austrian auction house (Dorotheum), and you can see here:
https://www.dorotheum.com/en/l/9548036/
Any thoughts, ideas, or references are welcome!

 

A star is also a symbol of the Virgin Mary, through her role as Queen of the Heavens and her connection with ancient celestial goddesses like Inanna.

An example: The Dutch Medieval Madonna "Sterre der zee" which means Star of the Sea. You can faintly see gold stars on her pale blue dress:

 

Some of us don't click on unknown links so you might want to actually put in a photo

 

Thanks for the tip, I’ll do that.

 

Are you considering buying it, or are you the seller?

 

If I’m able to find out more about the piece, I would be interested in acquiring it.

 

Wow, wow, WOW!!! A prosperous and devoted lady wore this

 

Yes, that’s certainly possible — or perhaps a very devout gentleman.
That’s the question

 

I would guess man, but that's just a guess; it could be either or both, and probably was. The picture of the back on the auction site shows the cross can be removed. From what I can see, the star is meant to be worn on a cord or ribbon. If it were a pin I'd expect the star to have a bar of metal behind it, to make it safer to wear.

 

Wasnt it Empress Elizabeth who made stars fashionable in the 1860s ? That is stunning and Id absolutely wear it !

 

Definitely a very devout lady.

 

Part of the portrait Winterhalter painted of Sisi in 1865, stars in her hair and on her dress and wrap:

 

Huzzah ! I remembered something ! Thats getting rare in my aging mind !

 

That would be a sensation if it were hanging from that chain