Greek Rosette Pendant Earrings and Torsade Necklace Set

Description

The Museum’s collection includes a pair of meticulously wrought gold earrings (Greek, Late Classical, ca. 350–300 B.C.). Each bears a round disc with a central rosette, from which hang a miniscule female head and delicate cone pendants. We have adapted elements of the original Greek adornments for our dramatic earrings and necklace set.

24K gold overlay.

Earrings: 1 1/2''L. Pierced, with gold-filled posts.
Necklace: Five twisted strands with an off-center medallion. Glass moonstone beads. Hook and eye closure. 17''L.

Art History

Jewelry played a prominent role in ancient Greek life, ritual, and death. Artistic representations of daily activities reveal how affluent Greeks used jewelry to display wealth and prestige. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings were among the jewelry types most frequently worn by women. On important occasions, jewelry was offered to the gods, and it also accompanied people in death. Classical Greek jewelry tended to exclude gemstones and placed a premium on the elaborate, often very delicate, working of the gold.