Ladies shimmering flash necklaces -Roman Intaglio Gemstone Necklace

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Eleven exceptionally rare carved gemstones are featured in this museum-quality Victorian necklace and the majority of the intaglio gems date to ancient Rome. Also known as gem carving, the art of intaglio dates to as early as the 14th century B.C.E. and was practiced by ancient civilizations in Mesopotamia, Assyria, Phoenicia, and later in Greece and Rome. The gemstone intaglio was among the most popular jewelry designs in ancient Rome, as Roman men of social standing commonly wore intaglio rings in order to mark wax seals.

This necklace includes ancient intaglios carved from a variety of gemstones, including carnelian, bloodstone, and lapis lazuli. Classic in execution and style, these intaglios feature everything from portraits and mythological scenes to animals and classical vases. Six intaglios, featuring birds and hunting scenes, date to Roman antiquity, while the remaining five were carved in the 18th century. Each design was painstakingly etched into the surface of the gemstone, giving zero room for error.

This collection of unique intaglios was likely formed from a single collector’s Grand Tour souvenirs, as these impressive gems were highly desired collectibles for wealthy European youths partaking in this journey. Their portable size and ties to the ancient world would have made these intaglios a rare, coveted souvenir in the 19th century, and even more so today. Set in 14K gold.

19th century

18" length