Greece, Hellenistic Period, ca. 2nd to 1st century BCE. A fine pair of lovely and high quality 96.1% to 98.2%% (equivalent to 23K+) gold earrings, each comprised of a thick tapering wire that broadens to a crescent or boat shape. The hollow body widens at the center, creating an interesting contour to the curved shape. The wire-like hook rises from one end and curves back, tapering slightly to fit through the earlobe of the wearer. Both ancient earrings are made wearable with the addition of modern 14k gold-plated sterling silver ear hooks. Earrings like these would have been worn by high status women, who treasured their jewelry - some of the only private property elite women could own in the Classical Mediterranean. Size (larger earring): 1.24" L x 0.55" Diameter (3.1 cm x 1.4 cm); gold quality: 96.1% to 98.2% (equivalent to 23K+); total weight: 5.2 grams
Provenance: private East Coast collection, New York, USA; ex-East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010
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#142750
Condition
While a similar shape these are not a perfectly matched pair and are slightly different sizes. Smaller earring has indentations to body and wire has minor bending. Larger earring is intact with only slight bending to wire. Both are wearable with a modern 14K gold-plated sterling silver earhooks.