JANUARY- guarded by JANUS

Always passionate about Ancient History, Ancient Artefacts, Mythology and Ancient Jewellery- January seems apt to revisit some founding inspirations for our journey as 1077Atelier. Our first love of intricate jewellery design and especially garnets, came from early imagery and research on an epoch featuring gold wiring, tassels, intricate gold beading and warm displays of elaborately set gemstones. Visions of Athenian goddesses adorned with ornate earrings and neckpieces illuminated the legends and Mythology we so easily got lost in!

The Hellenistic period, extending from the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BCE to the advent of the Roman Empire, represents a pinnacle of cultural and artistic achievement in the ancient world. This era witnessed the blending of Greek and Eastern influences, resulting in an explosion of creativity that left an indelible mark on history. One of the most enduring symbols of this time is the exquisite jewellery crafted by Hellenistic artisans, where Garnet gemstones often took centre stage, radiating passion and protection.

As we delve into the epoch of early Hellenistic jewellery, it’s intriguing to note the connection between this era and the legend of Janus, the Roman god of beginnings, transitions, and time. Janus is often depicted with two faces, symbolizing his ability to look both forward and backward. His association with doorways, thresholds, and new beginnings made him the perfect deity to preside over the month of January, marking the transition from one year to the next.

Janus’ dual-faced nature encapsulates the essence of the Hellenistic period—a time of transition, transformation, and fusion of cultures. Just as Janus could see both the past and the future, Hellenistic artisans looked back to the classical traditions of Greece while embracing new influences from the East. This synthesis resulted in the creation of extraordinary jewellery that continues to captivate us today!

A Greek Gold & Garnet Earring Hellenistic Period circa 3rd Century BC
Greek Gold & Agate Hellenistic Earrings showcasing intricate wirework 1st Century BC
Pair Greek Gold Cherubian Earrings Hellenistic period 3rd Century BC - Copy

A Glimpse into Hellenistic Craftsmanship

Hellenistic jewellers were true alchemists of their time, mastering techniques that allowed them to transform raw materials into intricate works of art. Their creations were characterized by intricate designs, vivid gemstones, enamelling, and an unyielding commitment to craftsmanship. Jewellery from this period often featured delicate filigree, elaborate granulation, and the skilful use of coloured gemstones.

The Garnet: A Gemstone of Timeless Allure

Garnets, with their deep, rich hues ranging from crimson to purplish-red, held a special place in Hellenistic jewellery. These gemstones were believed to possess protective qualities, warding off evil and ensuring the wearer’s safety. The Garnet’s alluring colour and symbolic significance made it a prized choice for both adornment and amulets.

In Hellenistic jewellery, Garnets were often set in intricate gold settings, creating a stunning contrast that highlighted the gem’s natural beauty. Necklaces, rings, and earrings adorned with garnets became symbols of status and sophistication, worn by the elite to demonstrate their wealth and refinement.

Symbolism and Mystique

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Garnets were imbued with rich symbolism. In the Hellenistic world, garnets were associated with the heart and blood, symbolizing passion, love, and vitality. They were also believed to have healing properties, providing physical and emotional strength to those who wore them. This blend of beauty and mystique made Garnets not only cherished adornments but also powerful talismans.

Enduring Influence

The allure of Hellenistic jewellery endures to this day, with Garnet-adorned pieces continuing to inspire modern designs. The legacy of Hellenistic craftsmanship can be seen in contemporary jewellery collections that pay homage to the elegance and sophistication of the past. The Garnet gemstone, with its timeless appeal, remains a favourite choice for those seeking to infuse their jewellery with a touch of historical grandeur.

Design Elements of Hellenistic Jewellery:

  1. Tassels

Tassels were a popular decorative element in Hellenistic gold jewellery. They often adorned earrings, necklaces, and pendants, adding a sense of movement and elegance. These tassels were typically composed of delicate gold chains or fine threads, sometimes embellished with tiny gold beads or gemstones, creating a shimmering effect as they swayed.

  1. Birds

Bird motifs were frequently used in Hellenistic jewellery, symbolizing various themes such as freedom, beauty, and divine connection. Goldsmiths skilfully crafted birds in intricate detail, capturing the graceful forms of creatures like doves, eagles, and sparrows. These bird motifs were often incorporated into earrings, brooches, and pendants, adding a touch of nature’s elegance to the pieces.

  1. Beads

Gold beads were a staple in Hellenistic jewellery design. These beads came in various shapes and sizes, including spherical, cylindrical, and barrel-shaped. They were often used to create intricate beadwork patterns in necklaces, bracelets, and anklets. Some pieces featured alternating beads of gold and gemstones, enhancing the visual appeal and luxury of the jewellery.

  1. Granulation

Granulation is a technique where tiny gold beads are fused onto a gold surface to create intricate patterns and textures. Hellenistic jewellers mastered this technique, using it to adorn a wide range of jewellery pieces, including rings, earrings, and pendants. The granulated designs often depicted geometric patterns, floral motifs, and abstract forms, showcasing the jeweller’s precision and artistic flair.

  1. Filigree

Filigree involves twisting and curling thin gold wires to create delicate, lace-like designs. This technique was widely used in Hellenistic jewellery to craft intricate patterns and shapes. Filigree work could be found in earrings, necklaces, and diadems, often combined with other elements like gemstones and enamel to enhance the overall beauty of the piece.

  1. Animal Motifs

In addition to birds, Hellenistic gold jewellery often featured other animal motifs, such as lions, serpents, and dolphins. These motifs were symbolic and held various cultural and mythological meanings. Animal figures were meticulously crafted and sometimes set with gemstones to highlight specific features, making them stand out as focal points in the jewellery.

  1. Enamel Work

Enamelling was another technique employed by Hellenistic goldsmiths to add colour and vibrancy to their creations. Enamel was applied to gold surfaces to create colourful designs, often depicting floral patterns, mythological scenes, or abstract motifs. This technique allowed for a striking contrast between the gleaming gold and the vibrant enamel colours.

  1. Cameos and Intaglios

Cameos and intaglios were popular decorative elements in Hellenistic jewellery. Cameos were carved in relief, featuring portraits, mythological scenes, or intricate designs, while intaglios were engraved into gemstones or glass. These detailed carvings were often set in rings, pendants, and bracelets, showcasing the jeweller’s skill in miniature art.

Hellenistic gold jewellery remains a testament to the artisans’ ability to blend artistic imagination with technical expertise. Each piece, adorned with tassels, birds, beads, and more, tells a story of opulence and creativity that continues to inspire and captivate admirers today.

Shopping Basket
Scroll to Top