Ancient Roman Jewelry and Earrings

Jewelry and Earrings from Ancient Rome and the Roman Empire. Both men and women wore handmade jewelry pieces including bracelets, earrings, rings, collars and necklaces. Romans wore gemstone pendants and pearls that  wire wrapped around gold. 

Gold Earring with Pearl

2nd-3rd Century AD

Earrings with Agate Pendant

3rd Century AD

Garnet Earrings

1st Century AD

Gold and Variscite Earring, 2nd Century 
 AD

 

 

 

Garnet Earrings,

 1st -3rd Century AD  

Gold Loop Earrings

2nd-3rd Century

 

Gold and Garnet Earrings

 1st -3rd Century AD

Ancient History of Earrings and Jewelry Facts

• Earrings have been around since 2000 - 3000 B.C.  
• 1st Archaeological evidence of earrings dates back to Iraq, from the Persian Empire    
• Popular among Egyptians, Romans, Greeks, and Assyrians   
• Two specific types of earrings worn: Pendants and Hoops  
• Symbolized wealth, honor, social or class status and personal/political identity.   
• Pendants with gemstones were commonly worn during the Roman Empire   
• Earrings were usually worn by men in ancient times

 

 

Greece - Gold Earrings

 1-2nd Century B.C.

Greece - Gold Earrings

16th century B.C.

Roman - Amethyst Gemstone Pendant

212 AD

 

Syria - Gold Earrings

11th century

 

Iran - Gold Wire Earrings 11-12th century

Further Resources:

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Jewellery - Wikipedia