A stunning pair of Near Eastern-Western Asiatic solid gold earrings, each enriched with two rows of gold granules along the bottom of the hoop. A round bezel with purple cabouchon garnet decorates the earring on top of the granule trails close to the clasp. The ancient Romans considered jewellery to be an essential accessory, for it provided a public display of their wealth. Roman jewellery at first followed trends set by the Etruscans, using gold and glass beads. However, as the power and spread of the Roman Empire increased, jewellery designs became increasingly elaborate. Different cultural styles from Greece, Egypt, North Africa, and the Orient were all incorporated to reflect Rome’s prosperity as a dominant, conquering city. The custom of wearing rings was probably introduced by the Sabines, who are described in early legends as wearing gold rings with precious stones. During the Roman Republic it became customary for all the senators, chief magistrates, and eventually the equites, to wear gold rings. Measurements: W2.1cm x H1.9cm Weight: 5.68 g Provenance: Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.