Pietas Pendant

£5,400
Short 47 cm Medium 60 cm Long 75 cm CHOKER
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Pietas Pendant
Pietas Pendant
Pietas Pendant
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Details

Authentic silver coin of Pietas set in 18K gold with ruby cabochons.

Handmade in Rome.

History

Pietas, the divine embodiment of duty, religiosity, and loyalty, was one of the foremost virtues of ancient Rome. Pietas was more than a concept; she was personified as a goddess, symbolising the sacred essence of devotion.

According to a miraculous legend, a poor woman who was starving in prison was saved when her daughter gave her breast milk. Caught in the act, the daughter was not punished but recognised for her pietas. Mother and daughter were set free and given public support for the rest of their lives. The site was regarded as sacred to the goddess Pietas (consecratus deae) because she had chosen to manifest her presence there. The story exemplified pietas erga parentes, the proper devotion one ought to show to one's parents.

The reverse of the coin features two clasped hands overlapping a winged caduceus with intertwining snakes, a symbol of harmony. According to legend, Hermes intervened in a fight between two snakes, causing them to entwine around his rod, symbolising peace and unity.

This denarius was issued by Albinus Brutus, one of the three assassins of Julius Caesar, as indicated by the markings on the reverse. The symbolism of pietas juxtaposed with the character of its issuer adds a layer of historical irony and intrigue.

Measurements
  • Coin Ø 17-19mm
Delivery

Free worldwide delivery is available on all orders over £1500 / €1800.

You may return or exchange all mainline products ordered within 14 days of receipt of the goods.

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Care

Each ancient coin and artefact used in our jewellery has been restored and professionally stabilised to ensure it can be enjoyed for lifetimes. Patina, the natural toning and oxidation on silver, bronze, and copper coins, is not dirt; it is a protective layer formed over hundreds of years, adding to the coin’s unique history. Conservation efforts aim to stabilise and preserve these valuable patinas whenever possible. Silver naturally tones over time, developing a soft to deep grey with brighter highlights on raised surfaces. This toning is highly coveted, adding a touch of age and beauty to the coin’s details that only time can provide.

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Pietas Pendant
Pietas Pendant
Pietas Pendant
Pietas
Pietas
(DENARIUS)
Pietas, the divine embodiment of duty, religiosity, and loyalty, was one of the foremost virtues of ancient Rome. Pietas was more than a concept; she was personified as a goddess, symbolising the sacred essence of devotion.
Gold
Gold
(18K)
It is a dense, soft, malleable, and ductile metal. Gold is highly valued for its beauty, rarity, and resistance to corrosion. It does not tarnish or corrode over time, making it a perfect choice for jewellery.
Ruby
Ruby
(CORUNDUM)
Ruby, renowned for its mesmerising deep red hue, stands as one of the most coveted gems in the world. Its name, derived from the Latin 'ruber', meaning 'red', embodies the colour of passion and love, making it an emblem of deep affection and ardour.
Pietas
Pietas
(DENARIUS)
Pietas, the divine embodiment of duty, religiosity, and loyalty, was one of the foremost virtues of ancient Rome. Pietas was more than a concept; she was personified as a goddess, symbolising the sacred essence of devotion.
Gold
Gold
(18K)
It is a dense, soft, malleable, and ductile metal. Gold is highly valued for its beauty, rarity, and resistance to corrosion. It does not tarnish or corrode over time, making it a perfect choice for jewellery.
Ruby
Ruby
(CORUNDUM)
Ruby, renowned for its mesmerising deep red hue, stands as one of the most coveted gems in the world. Its name, derived from the Latin 'ruber', meaning 'red', embodies the colour of passion and love, making it an emblem of deep affection and ardour.