Antique Vintage Georgian 22k Gold Ancient Persian Achaemenid Ram Cuff Bracelet

Description

We have similar Ram and Georgian items, which would pair nicely with this piece, for sale this week. To view in separate listings, please visit our store and search "Ram" or "Georgian" under our
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Listing Description by: Cait P.
The Piece
Age Circa:
Georgian C. 1714 - 1837
Markings:
Unmarked, tested, and guaranteed
Country of Origin:
Achaemenid Empire
Brand:
Unknown
Gram Weight:
42.1 grams
Metal Type:
22k yellow gold rams' heads, copper band, silver gilded over base metal accents
Material:
--
Main Stone:
--
Main Stone Measurement/Color:
--
Accent Stone:
--
Accent Stone Measurement/Color:
--
Stone Treatment:
--
Stone Cuts:
--
Item Measurements:
Inner circumference and wearable length:
8.6"
Wrist gap:
3.05"
Band width:
0.25" to 0.55"
Bracelet Type:
Cuff/arm cuff
Closure/Clasp Type:
This bracelet is meant to be worn over the arm through the gap
Link Type:
Woven copper
Notable Features:
This bracelet was handmade between the 6th and 4th century BC and was dug up during the Georgian era. Composed of copper, the bracelet features solid 22k yellow gold rams' head motifs and silver gilded over base metal accents. The overall design of the bracelet suggests it was made in the Achaemenid Persian empire, which lasted from 550 to 330 BC. Bracelets such as this, particularly with their woven band style, were very popular during this time period within the Achaemenid Empire, as well as throughout the ancient world. Bracelets with similar designs have been found in Egypt, Greece, as well as at ancient Roman and Etruscan sites due to the influence of the Persians during this time period.
Bracelets such as this were very popular thousands of years later during the Georgian period, during which European travelers would set off on their Grand Tour, visiting the sites of ancient civilizations such as the Greeks, Romans, and Achaemenid Persians. During their travels, they would sometimes dig up artifacts, including pieces of jewelry, as was most likely the case with this piece. Often these pieces were preserved, left with the dirt they had been buried in intact; however, this piece was cleaned by a previous owner.
The 22k yellow gold rams' heads adorn the ends of the bracelet and were a symbol of the Achaemenid Empire, often appearing on the helmets of ancient Persian armies and kings. The symbol was also associated with power and masculinity, making it popular for inclusion in jewelry. Beneath the rams' heads are two circular bands of silver gilded over a base metal, a technique most likely invented by the ancient Persians. The band of the bracelet itself is made entirely out of interwoven copper wires in the style that was popular at the time. The large inner circumference of the bracelet suggests it was meant to be worn further up the forearm, as was fashionable amongst ancient Persians during this time period. An incredible example of jewelry from the ancient Achaemenid empire that was unearthed during the Georgian era, this bracelet would make a valuable addition to any antique jewelry collection. Don't miss your chance to preserve this piece of cultural history.
Damage:
Age appropriate wear.
*This listing is for the item only. All display boxes and/or photography props do not come with your purchase.*
The History
The Georgian era is known for its hand-crafted designs, which were heavily influenced by world exploration. A few signatures of this era were high karat gold, cameos, chatelaine accessories, foil-backed stones, rivière necklaces, memento mori and mourning jewelry, and rose and mine cut diamonds. While the jewelry from this era began to see designs from all over the world, jewelry from abroad was still very expensive to acquire due to sea travel. Between age and difficulty of acquirement, pieces from the Georgian era are amazing and rare historical finds.
The Grand Tour was a popular vacation during the Georgian and Victorian eras. This vacation was generally between two and four years long, and it allowed wealthy people the opportunity to study different cultures, architecture, and art. During this vacation, travelers would pick up pieces of jewelry, which allowed the introduction of techniques and styles such as cameos, mosaics, and pietra dura to be introduced into popular jewelry styles.
Domestic US
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USPS
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: .00 fully insured, estimated 3-5 business days
USPS
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: .00 fully insured, estimated 2-3 business days
USPS
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