A Late Roman - Early Byzantine Gold and Garnet Pendant, ca. 4th - 6th century CE

A distinctive high-karat gold pendant set with a lovely uncut, hand-polished garnet. The stone sits within a custom-shaped bezel that follows its irregular outline, reflecting late antique preferences for richly colored gems over standardized cuts. A twisted rope border frames the setting with crisp, even workmanship. The outer frame is a softly curved teardrop form executed in sheet gold and decorated with an openwork ring of circular apertures. These piercings are slightly varied in size and spacing, giving the pendant an airy, handmade character. A small applied granule sits at the lower edge, marking the join of the rope border and adding a quiet decorative pause.

This combination of rope border, pierced openwork, and organically shaped garnet is consistent with jewellery workshops active around the eastern Mediterranean during the late Roman and early Byzantine periods.

Background: In the ancient world, garnet was valued for both its deep color and its protective associations. Romans and Byzantines used the stone widely in personal jewellery, where it symbolized vitality, steadfastness, and divine favor. Its rich red tone evoked blood and life force, which is why garnet settings were often chosen for amulets meant to guard the wearer against illness, misfortune, and the unseen dangers of travel. Late antique writers also describe garnet as a stone of clarity and inner strength, making it a favored choice for rings, pendants, and other intimate objects kept close to the body. 

Medium: Gold, Garnet

Dimensions: Pendant length: 5/8 inch (1.8 cm) Strung as a necklace on an 18K yellow gold chain, adjustable up to 18 inches

Condition: Pendant intact with typical age wear; minor loss to the lower edge of the gold frame. An adjustable 18" modern chain of 18K yellow gold has been added for wear.

Provenance: Collection of Henry Anavian, Sumer Gallery, New York, acquired in the 1980s, then by descent to the family.

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