Late Hellenistic Carnelian Necklace

Description

Our dramatic necklace has been adapted from an original Late Hellenistic parure (matching set) consisting of a necklace and earrings. The original set (Greek, Late Hellenistic, 1st century B.C.) was crafted of gold and agate, and decorated with large cabochon garnets. Such fine parures are rare in this period in comparison to the rich material found in burials from the earlier part of the Hellenistic period.

24K gold overlay, with carnelian. Lobster claw closure. 18''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. Jewelry often passed from generation to generation as family heirlooms. Some of the best-preserved examples come from tombs where jewelry was placed on the body of the deceased, though by Late Hellenistic times, rich burial goods were less common.