Description Roman-controlled Egypt, Alexandria, late Ptolemaic to early Roman period, ca. 1st century BCE to 1st century CE. A gorgeous pendant of a conical form that is hand-carved from vermilion-hued carnelian. The smooth body gradually tapers towards the top where a shallow incised groove is situated, and within the groove is a loop-ended wire made from 95% gold (equivalent to 22K+). The ancient Egyptians believed that carnelian represented the blood and therefore the life flowing within each human and animal. The sanguine coloration was also believed to be a protective symbol for both the living and the dead. Strung on a modern necklace cord, this is a wonderful and wearable example of ancient jewelry! Size (pendant): 0.3" W x 1.1" H (0.8 cm x 2.8 cm); (necklace cord): 22" L (55.9 cm); quality of gold: 95% (equivalent to 22K+)
Provenance: ex-Frances Artuner collection, Belgium, collected in the 1960s
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#155512
Condition Report Strung in modern times and wearable as shown. Carnelian and gold pendant is ancient, and necklace cord is modern. Minor abrasions and encrustations to carnelian and gold, with nicks to top of carnelian, otherwise intact and excellent. Nice patina to gold.