Roman High-Karat Gold Shield Earrings, Hemispherical Domes

Roman, Imperial period. A pair of gold earrings, each with a fine wire hoop running into a broad domed boss, like a small shield worn at the ear. The bosses are hammered from sheet gold into smooth hemispheres, left plain without granulation or inlay. The hoop wire passes behind each dome and ends in a small twisted loop closure. Testing indicates 84.5–85.8 percent gold (about 20.3–20.6 karats), a high purity typical of ancient goldwork. The pair has been fitted with modern [metal] hooks for wearing. Item # 205472

Estimate:$400

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