Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 3rd century CE. A dazzling ensemble of 26 gold sheet and 27 stone beads, all strung in a lovely alternating pattern on a modern strand to be wearable. Each pierced on both sides, the lustrous gold beads are of a convex rectangular form with a high central ridge. Alternatively, the stone beads each present a cylindrical shape in rich hues of ash and charcoal grays. A stunning combination of ancient art and modern style! Size (of largest gold bead, all about the same): 1" L x 0.5" W (2.5 cm x 1.3 cm); Size (of strand): 19.5" L (49.5 cm); Size (of velvet setting): 9.2" W x 8.6" H (23.4 cm x 21.8 cm); Gold quality: 93 to 94% (equivalent to over 22 karats)

The ancient Romans accessorized themselves according to age, gender, and social standing. Women generally amassed more jewelry than men, wearing earrings, necklaces, rings, fibulae, and bracelets. The reason jewelry was so important to women was that it was one of the few possessions considered to be their own property, maintained independently of their husband's wealth, and symbolizing their own wealth and elite status.

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world's largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

Provenance: ex-Middletown, New York, USA collection; ex-upstate New York, USA collection; ex-Bonhams London, Knightsbridge "Antiquities" auction (May 16, 2002, lot 112); ex-Lord Alistair McAlpine collection, Erasmus & Co, Cork Street, London, United Kingdom

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#168330

Ancient beads strung on a modern strand to be wearable. Some light indentations to gold, but form is still clear. A few minor nicks to some stone beads. Otherwise, excellent. Sewn onto red velvet plaque with collection label on verso. Necklace cannot be removed from backing for accurate weighing.