Ancient Roman Style Earrings Cultured Freshwater Pearl 14K GF

Roman gold jewelry was noted for its intricate beading and granulation. This technique was perfected by the ancient Etruscans (from the area now known as Tuscany), who preceded the Romans on the Italian peninsula. Roman goldsmiths continued the tradition, right up to Renaissance times.

Greek jewelry styles were also hugely influential, which is why I've chosen these Greek Corinthian-style pendants, with their characteristic curled leaves and coils. These are gold-plate over pewter, and feature 6mm. very good quality cultured freshwater pearl drops, worked on 14kt. gold-filled pins. Natural saltwater pearls were wildly expensive during this period, but good freshwater pearls from all over the Empire were widely used and loved. They hang from 14kt. gold-filled French hooks and include rubber stoppers for security. They measure 1 & 3/8" long.

Historical factoid: Roman jewelry often featured even numbers (2 and 4) of gemstones, rather than the odd numbers found in other cultures. The 2-loop pattern on these pendants struck me as distinctly Roman. Perhaps this preference was related to their brilliant mathematical and engineering skills? Email me with your opinion! (so far, the consensus is a Yes.) The last scan shows a pair of recently-excavated ancient Roman emerald and pearl earrings with this double-drop style.

All metals are 14kt. gold-filled and gold plate over pewter. The cultured freshwater pearls are genuine. The value of these earrings in a good historical reproduction jewelry catalog would be about $65.

NOTE: all my original designs and text are sole property of Strega2 Jewelry and protected under Title 17 of the U.S. copyright laws. Any copying, adaptation or infringement will result in legal action.

Item ID: n/a1382