Byzantine Gold Coin Pendant

This 22 karat yellow gold pendant surrounds a Byzantine nomisma (origin of the word numismatic-refering to the collection of coins). This coin dates from the reign of John II Comnenos (1118 to 1143). John II was the greatest of the emperors of the century, making alliances with the west and recovering provinces and territories lost to the Turks in the preceeding century. He embodied the ideal of the Christian ruler, by also leading his armies and those of the Crusader States into Moslem Syria. He was known as John the Beautiful.
John II Comnenos, 1118-1143, Gold Nomisma, Constantinople Mint, Obverse: Christ Enthroned in Majesty; Reverse: Virgin Mary Crowning the Emperor, 22 KY High Desert Mounting Designed by Valerie Jean Fairchild