A rare Roman emerald bead pendant formed from a natural hexagonal emerald crystal, lightly polished and drilled in antiquity for suspension. The semi-opaque stone displays characteristic inclusions and tonal variations ranging from pale to deep green, preserving much of its original crystalline structure. Early Roman authors consistently referred to emeralds as coming from ancient mines in Egypt, near Sikait, about halfway between Luxor on the Nile River and the Roman-era port city of Berenike on the Red Sea. These mines supplied the Roman world with gemstones, prized for their rarity and vivid color, and subsequently traded throughout the Mediterranean, Near East, and India. Unlike the faceted emeralds familiar today, ancient examples were often worn in their natural crystal form with only minimal shaping or polishing. This lovely, semi-opaque example is especially appealing for preserving its original six-sided structure and for the clear evidence of ancient drilling and use. Medium: Emerald, gold Dimensions: Bead length: 10 mm (0.4 inch) Condition: This is a rough cut semi-opaque emerald with inclusions and color variations - it is not like the emeralds we know today, but still very cool! Overall, it is in very good condition, and has been restrung on an adjustable 18-inch chain of 18K yellow gold. Provenance: Stuart Giles (1951-1993) private collection acquired in London between 1978 and 1982, then by family descent.
