A Mughal gem-set gold mounted jade Pendant (Haldili); India, late 18th-early 19th Century. Photo Bonhams

cartouche-shaped, inlaid with gold and set with cabochon-cut rubies and emeralds and tablet-cut diamonds in a three-stemmed symmetrical floral motif emanating from a small oval ruby, with two birds in profile flanking the central diamond, drilled for suspension. 5.2cm wide; Estimate: £8,000 - 12,000, € 9,600 - 14,000

Provenance: Property of a Gentleman.

A haldili is a pendant amulet worn to control involuntary palpitations of the heart. Haldilis are usually decorated with a linear, conventionalised, symmetrical branching tree-of-life pattern, emanating from a vase. The gem-stones are possibly a reference to fruit or flowers on the tree of life. (The reverse side of the haldili can be plain which may mean it was intended for use by a Hindu, or, if for a Muslim, it was never inscribed).

 Bonhams. Islamic and Indian Art, 24 Apr 2012. London, New Bond Street http://www.bonhams.com