History & Inspiration
Onion domes—most iconically seen on Moscow’s Saint Basil’s Cathedral—became a defining feature of Russian Orthodox architecture. Scholars link their emergence to practical snow-shedding forms in wooden church building, and to cultural exchange after the conquest of Kazan in 1552; over time they came to symbolise Russia itself. The domes’ tapering form has also been read as a “flame of a candle,” a spiritual metaphor within Orthodox tradition.
Jewellery has long translated architectural language into wearable scale. In Imperial Russia, the House of Fabergé drew on national motifs—cathedrals, cupolas, and court symbolism—across eggs, objets d’art, and jewels, cementing the idea that Russian architecture could inspire precious miniature design.
Design & Craftsmanship (Our Charm)
- Form: Polished hematite dome in a sterling-silver mount—an abstracted “onion dome” silhouette.
- Dimensions: Approx. 24 mm high × 10 mm diameter (dome); standard Links of London oval bail 9 mm × 7 mm (fits bracelets/necklaces up to 5 mm wide).
- Hallmarks: Links of London three-ring logo, LL sponsor’s mark, 925; this individual example bears the UK date letter for 2010 (manufacture date of the piece, not the design’s launch year).
- Condition: Professionally cleaned and polished; supplied with a split ring for Sweetie attachment.
Why a Dome? Symbolism & Style
The onion dome’s upward sweep—often described as a candle-flame—speaks to devotion, resilience, and national identity in Russian art. As a jewellery shape, it reads as architectural yet soft, modern yet historic: a perfect “miniature monument” for daily wear.
Hematite: Material with History
Hematite (from the Greek haima, “blood”) has a deep track record in jewellery: carved seals and cameos in antiquity, and widely in Victorian mourning jewels for its metallic sheen. Contemporary wearers prize its graphite-silver polish and traditional associations with grounding and focus.
Collectibility
Architectural motifs—especially those tied to place—age well in collecting terms. This charm’s combination of a recognisable cultural form (onion dome) with an uncommon Links gemstone (hematite) makes it a distinctive addition to a vintage Links of London lineup. For provenance, we catalogue it under our Russian-inspired design family, alongside related “Anastasia” era pieces that referenced Moscow’s skyline in 2005 catalogues. (We maintain historical terminology for research clarity while using “Anastasia” in current naming to avoid confusion with later trademarks.)
How to Wear It
- On a Sweetie bracelet: Use the supplied split ring for instant attachment; style it as a single sculptural focal or pair with crosses, stars, or travel-themed charms.
- As a pendant: The 9×7 mm bail accommodates most Links necklaces up to 5 mm wide; try a fine box belcher for a clean, modern line.
- Monochrome stack: Mix with onyx, black spinel, or enamel charms to echo hematite’s cool metallic tone.
