Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 3rd century CE. Wow! A stunning, elegant 22 karat gold necklace, composed of a fine loop-in-loop chain secured by a simple hook-and-eye clasp. In excellent condition. The overall effect is simple but eye-catching, and this example of expert Roman craftsmanship is still wearable! Length of chain: 18.8" L (47.8 cm); 21.4 grams

This chain closely resembles those found in the Hoxne Hoard, the richest find of treasure from Roman Britain and the largest collection of gold and silver found anywhere within the Roman Empire from the 4th to 5th centuries. Found within this hoard were body chains, necklaces, bracelets, and rings, some of the rings threaded onto the chains. The chains and necklaces like this one were made to be worn by very elite women, and were probably designed to have pendants hanging on them. Indeed, it seems likely that the gold jewelry in the Hoxne hoard represents the finest items owned by a wealthy woman (rather than items she would have worn every day), including heirlooms and items that were probably made just for her wedding.

See a very similar necklace from the Hoxne Hoard at the British Museum: http://www.britishmuseum.org/research/collection_online/collection_object_details.aspx?objectId=1362669&partId=1&searchText=roman+gold+chain&page=1 and a body chain with similar terminals, also from the Hoxne Hoard: http://www.britishmuseum.org/research/collection_online/collection_object_details.aspx?objectId=1362670&partId=1&searchText=roman+gold+chain&page=2

This lot has been has been tested for the presence or absence of particular elements via XRF elemental analysis. A basic 1-page summary of the XRF screening will accompany purchase, identifying each element present in the sample, as well as the quantity of elements present. A more complete analysis detailing historical data / comparisons is available for additional charge – please contact us.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#137717

Excellent. Clasp still functional.