The mass production of glass in Ancient Rome prompted the development of glass jewellery. The ageing process of glass endows Roman glass jewellery with unique qualities. For instance, contaminants manufactured into the glass, exposed to the surrounding environment over thousands of years, result in beautiful lustres and speckling, where the glass might formerly have been transparent.
The ancient Romans considered jewellery to be an essential accessory, for it provided a public display of their wealth. Roman jewellery at first followed trends set by the Etruscans, using gold and glass beads, but as the power and spread of the Roman Empire increased, jewellery designs became increasingly elaborate. Different cultural styles from Greece, Egypt, North Africa, and the Orient were all incorporated to reflect Rome’s prosperity as a dominant, conquering city.
Ancient Roman Green Glass Beaded Necklace
£ 75.00
A restrung Ancient Roman green glass necklace. The body of the necklace is comprised of long tubular beads with smaller spherical and ellipsoid beads interspersed throughout. The necklace culminates at a centrepiece made up of three beads, the first being a slightly opaque, emerald colour, spherical bead, followed by a dark green tubular bead, and finally a small lighter green spherical bead. The piece is finished with a modern gold-plated clasp (please be aware that the clasp has not been professionally tied).
Half-length of necklace: 24.5cm
Condition: Good condition. Minor wear and encrustations to the beads consistent with age.
SOLD
Weight | 21.9 g |
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Dimensions | L 24.5 cm |
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