Dioscuri Pendant

This unique design features two youthful male heads positioned side by side, one upright and the other inverted. This captivating motif has been variously interpreted as representing the Dioscuri, the rising and setting sun, or the two branches of the river Danube.

The Dioscuri, Castor and Pollux, epitomised courage and bravery and were especially revered by soldiers and cavalry. Renowned as protectors of sailors, they were believed to have the power to calm seas and still winds. In Rome, their legendary intervention at the Battle of Lake Regillus in 496 B.C. secured a pivotal victory for the Romans against the Latins. Their legacy was celebrated with annual games featuring horse racing on January 27th, highlighting their strong association with horsemanship.

The constellation Gemini is intrinsically linked to the Dioscuri. Sharing the same mother, Leda, Castor was the mortal son of Tyndareus, the king of Sparta, while Pollux was the divine offspring of Zeus. Together, they joined Jason on the Argo and famously saved the ship from a deadly storm. When Castor perished in battle, Pollux implored Zeus to reunite them. Zeus granted this wish, immortalising them in the stars and allowing them to alternate between Earth and the heavens. Sailors who spotted the twin stars believed they were blessed with a prosperous voyage.

Flipping the coin reveals a majestic sea eagle grasping a dolphin in its talons. This emblem, prominent in the coinage of Olbia, Istros, and Sinope, ancient cities along the Black Sea, highlights a powerful union. The eagle, representing Zeus, and the dolphin, symbolising Poseidon or Apollo Delphinios, suggest a harmony between the celestial and aquatic realms. This imagery also showcases the marine resources vital to these port cities.

Ancient Istros was a Greek colony founded in 657 B.C., located in the region of Thrace, near the Danube river. Situated near fertile, arable land, it flourished as a centre of commercial importance. The Eagle-on-Dolphin design persisted in Istros' coinage until as late as 211 A.D., underscoring its enduring significance and the lasting heritage of this powerful symbol.

• Coin Ø 19mm

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.

View our FAQs for more information

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.

View our CARE recommendations