Fig 32 Gold crescent pendant. 
Roman period.
(Athens, National Archaeological Museum, DHM 3114). 

Fig. 33 Gold necklace with papyrous shaped, glass-paste pendant and disc clasp with gorgoneion.
2nd century BC.
(Athens, National Archaeological Museum, DHM 1557). 

Roman period (fig. 32,33)

During the years of the Roman occupation, after 27 BC, no significant changes took place in jewellery making. The existing shapes from the Hellenistic period continued in use with minor differences, while the same techniques were employed, perhaps not so successfully. Filigree and granulation appear less frequently, whereas, on the contrary, the technique of opus interrasite was adopted.

The predilection for polychrome effects using gemstones increased, while enamelling retreated. In addition to other stones, precious gems were used too, such as sapphire, emerald, topaz, aquamarine and even uncut diamonds. The technique of niello, known in Mycenaean times, reappeared.

All these tendencies led to the gold and silversmithing of Early Christian and Byzantine times.

 Elizabetb Stasinopouloa

Archaeologist,
National Archaeological Museum

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