Jewellery is thought to be one of the oldest forms of art within history, with the presence of rings, bangles and necklaces’ being present in almost all ancient societies. The western Asiatic during Mesopotamia is home to many interesting and unique jewellery patterns, with gemstones being the material of choice for ancient citizens to decorate themselves with. The sophisticated nature of the society can be seen through their jewellery making skills with elaborate patterns and carvings being common find.
Hardstone refers to semi-precious stones like lapis lazuli, agate and carnelian. It was a very popular material within Western Asiatic jewellery as well as in architectural decorations such as mosaics.
For more information on gemstones within ancient jewellery, please see our blog post: The History and Mythology of Gemstones in Ancient Jewellery