In the years 323-331 BC Greece changed. The country adopted the Athenian democracy which led to an era of prosperity and luxury. As a result, the demand for jewellery and such luxuries was higher than it had ever been. Centuries later, the jewellery of that era are part of Christie’s Auctions.
An ancient Greek gold bracelet dating back to 300 BC was sold for 149,000 dollars in New York’s Christie’s Ancient Jewellery Auction. The bracelet is a loop decorated with images of small birds, a die-cast lion on a Hercules knot and a representation of the ancient god Pan.
Furthermore, a gold carnelian ring of approximately the same era was also sold on December 13th, for 118,750 dollars. The ring was adorned with a picture of an aged Hercules that was carved in the bezel, a design that was popular even in 300 AD. Two similar pieces were found in Taranto and Avola, in Italy and are now part of the British Museum collection.
Finally, a Roman Sardonyx cameo, dating back to the first century AD was sold for 118,750 dollars. It was an exceptional piece, carved to perfection using the stones natural banding to create the profile of a priest or a follower of the god Bacchus.
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