A Roman Carnelian Faceted Bead Pendant, ca 1st century CE

A Roman Carnelian Faceted Bead Pendant, ca 1st century CE

RJ2148

Regular price495 USD
/
Shipping calculated at checkout.
  • This object qualifies for free USA shipping and a flat rate fee of $60 if shipping internationally.

The most favorable pieces of carnelian are a deep red to red-orange hue, and this carnelian faceted is a wonderful example of type.  Painstakingly hand-carved, drilled and polished in Roman times, the stone itself graduates from pale orange to a band overall.

Carnelian stones, which were immensely popular throughout Greco-Roman antiquity, originated from deposits in the Arabian Peninsula and India. Like the Egyptians and the Greeks, the Romans believed that cornelian was endowed with magical powers; it caused the blood to circulate smoothly throughout the body, made the skin healthy and youthful, and was capable of warding off evil.  Once considered strictly the property of the noble class, Romans of high social status were often buried with this gemstone.  Ancient warriors wore carnelian for courage and physical power to conquer their enemies. Since wearing carnelian also makes one feel peaceful and slow to anger, it was often worn by orators to achieve serenity before and during speeches. It is theorized that the color orange is the harmonious balance of passionate, creative red and bright, cheerful yellow, making it particularly soothing to wear.

Condition:  Recently strung a pendant with 18K white gold chain that can be adjusted, the bead is intact and in good condition overall. 

Dimensions:  Bead width: 1.43cm (0.56 inches).  Strung on an adjustable 18-inch chain of 18K white gold.

Provenance:  Private Californian collection, acquired in the mid-1960s and then by descent to present owner.

Sands of Time provides a lifetime, unconditional guarantee of authenticity and provenance. Every object you purchase from us is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, stating culture, provenance, and age.

Furthermore, we conduct due diligence to ensure the item, to the best of our knowledge, has not been illegally obtained from an excavation, architectural monument, public institution, or private property. Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.

We ship Tuesday to Friday with FedEx and usually same day if your order is received before 2pm. Within the continental USA, packing, shipping and insurance is free. Depending on size and destination, delivery times range from one to five business days.

For overseas shipments we charge a small flat rate which includes packing, preparation of all customs paperwork, insurance and carrier fees in compliance with all USA and International customs requirements.  Overseas shipments are sent using either USPS Priority Mail or FedEx but contact us if you have a shipping preference. International customers are responsible for all duties and taxes. 

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Come Visit Our Gallery

Any item from this site may be viewed by appointment at our Washington, DC location

Tuesday - Friday between 11 am - 5 pm.

Phone: 202 342 0518

Get directions