Hellenistic Gold & Crystal Necklace
This exquisite Hellenistic gold and rock crystal necklace, dating from the 2nd to 1st century BC, is a stunning testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the ancient world. Combining the luxurious allure of gold with the timeless beauty of rock crystal, this necklace encapsulates the elegance and sophistication of Hellenistic jewelry design.
What is Ancient Rock Crystal? Rock crystal is a term used to describe clear, colorless quartz, which has been valued throughout history for its beauty and versatility. In ancient times, rock crystal was highly prized and used in various cultural, artistic, and practical applications. Here's a closer look at what makes ancient rock crystal special and how it was used.
Rock crystal is a pure form of quartz (SiO₂), known for its transparency and clarity. Unlike other forms of quartz that may contain impurities causing color variations, rock crystal is typically free from significant impurities, resulting in its clear, glass-like appearance.
The Greeks and Romans were fascinated by the clarity of rock crystal. They crafted it into drinking vessels, jewelry, and decorative items. Rock crystal was also used in Roman mosaics and as inlay for furniture and other luxurious items. It was also widely used in ancient jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. Its clear, sparkling appearance made it a popular choice for adornment.
Circa 1st and 2nd Century B.C.
The clasp has been determined to be modern most likely mid to early 19th century.
This exquisite Hellenistic gold and rock crystal necklace, dating from the 2nd to 1st century BC, is a stunning testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the ancient world. Combining the luxurious allure of gold with the timeless beauty of rock crystal, this necklace encapsulates the elegance and sophistication of Hellenistic jewelry design.
What is Ancient Rock Crystal? Rock crystal is a term used to describe clear, colorless quartz, which has been valued throughout history for its beauty and versatility. In ancient times, rock crystal was highly prized and used in various cultural, artistic, and practical applications. Here's a closer look at what makes ancient rock crystal special and how it was used.
Rock crystal is a pure form of quartz (SiO₂), known for its transparency and clarity. Unlike other forms of quartz that may contain impurities causing color variations, rock crystal is typically free from significant impurities, resulting in its clear, glass-like appearance.
The Greeks and Romans were fascinated by the clarity of rock crystal. They crafted it into drinking vessels, jewelry, and decorative items. Rock crystal was also used in Roman mosaics and as inlay for furniture and other luxurious items. It was also widely used in ancient jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. Its clear, sparkling appearance made it a popular choice for adornment.
Circa 1st and 2nd Century B.C.
The clasp has been determined to be modern most likely mid to early 19th century.
This exquisite Hellenistic gold and rock crystal necklace, dating from the 2nd to 1st century BC, is a stunning testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the ancient world. Combining the luxurious allure of gold with the timeless beauty of rock crystal, this necklace encapsulates the elegance and sophistication of Hellenistic jewelry design.
What is Ancient Rock Crystal? Rock crystal is a term used to describe clear, colorless quartz, which has been valued throughout history for its beauty and versatility. In ancient times, rock crystal was highly prized and used in various cultural, artistic, and practical applications. Here's a closer look at what makes ancient rock crystal special and how it was used.
Rock crystal is a pure form of quartz (SiO₂), known for its transparency and clarity. Unlike other forms of quartz that may contain impurities causing color variations, rock crystal is typically free from significant impurities, resulting in its clear, glass-like appearance.
The Greeks and Romans were fascinated by the clarity of rock crystal. They crafted it into drinking vessels, jewelry, and decorative items. Rock crystal was also used in Roman mosaics and as inlay for furniture and other luxurious items. It was also widely used in ancient jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. Its clear, sparkling appearance made it a popular choice for adornment.
Circa 1st and 2nd Century B.C.
The clasp has been determined to be modern most likely mid to early 19th century.
Weight: 33.7 dwt or 52.41 Grams
Length: 42.55 cm or 16 3/4th Inches
Provence: Freeman’s and Hindman Auction: Sale 1343 - Antiquities and Ancient Art: Lot 233, Fortuna Fine Arts, New York, 1992 (The Gift of the Gods, p. 53, no. 68)
Other Similar Pieces:
Similar Hellenistic Gold and Crystal Necklace sold in 2011: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5509340
Similar Roman Gold and Garnet Necklace sold in 2013: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5753555
Similar Gold and Rock Crystal Necklace sold in 2007: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5004628
Similar Glass Bead and Rock Crystal Necklace sold in 2013: https://www.bonhams.com/auction/20670/lot/201/a-glass-bead-and-rock-crystal-necklace/