Crest with Latin writing?

[Silver_Schnauzer]

I have come across this small, seemingly very old necklace. The chain and pendant have both been acid tested but are not marked. The clasp of the chain is VERY ODD. Instead of a spring catch, there is a small lip on the catch that was just big enough for a fingernail to push it open. It does not have a spring, it just stays back and stays secured when slid back.... VERY COOL! I know it is not broken in any way so I would also like to know if anyone had every seen a chain catch like that and what time period it might be from? Also, the pendant has a crest with what looks like a knights armor helmet, a shining star, and a perhaps an oil lamp?? Below these images is what I believe might be Latin? The pendant is enameled and it and chain test positive for sterling or above! ANY INFO APPRECIATED!!

(Admin edit)
http://s1324.beta.photobucket.com/user/ ... ce-Pendant


PICTURES OF NECKLACE!!

[amena]

The cartouche at the bottom: pi beta epsilon in Greek letters, recalls the crests of the MIT fraternities.
Just a guess
Amena