Swan Pendant The Netherlands 1590s Gold, enamel, pearl, diamonds, rubies l 9.2 cm, w 5.9 cm In the late 16th to 17th centuries, 'baroque' pearls -- pearls of irregular shape -- were particularly popular. They were used to decorate rings, brooches, caskets and pendants. The designer's task was to see the contours of the future image in the pearl's curious shape. A large baroque pearl is also the basic element in the Hermitage pendant. With its gold and enamel setting it forms an elegant composition.