From Etrusci to the Eastern Roman Empire: Byzantine Style Jewelry

The Byzantine Empire rose from the ashes of the Roman Empire’s decline. When the Western Roman Empire fell, the Eastern Roman Empire continued to thrive until its fall under the Ottoman Turks, which successfully beat its forces in 1453. What sets apart Byzantine art from other styles is the use of rounded features. Even corners were not crisp but displayed slight rounding. Ornamentation was sumptuous and detailed. We have several examples of revival jewelry that pays homage to this style of jewelry.

Byzantine Style Tourmaline Necklace 

This piece exemplifies the role that Roman influences played in the design of Byzantine jewelry. The necklace is a double-sided creation that features 18k yellow gold as well as blackened silver. A cushion-cut pink, green and white tourmaline is the focal point of the design. It weighs in at 35.0cts. Artisans surrounded it with 65 round diamonds that weigh a combined .60cts. Another 14 smaller pink tourmalines accentuate style elements of the setting’s design. Turn the necklace around, and you see a Roman chariot engraving.

Byzantine Style Amethyst Bracelet in Heavy White Gold 

For this design, jewelry makers chose 14k white gold. The gemstone of choice is the amethyst. There are four oval and four square stones with a collective weight of 4.0cts. A total of eight links display polished and granulated style elements. The dark red and purple tones of the amethysts beautifully complement the gleaming gold. Although the links are partially hollow, the bracelet still features a significant weight that feels solid around the wrist. The rounding of the edges is evident.

Byzantine Style Hinged Dangle Earrings Featuring Rhodolites 

These vintage earrings start with 14k yellow gold. The hinged style makes wearing the earrings comfortable and gives them an attractive look as they adjust their display with the movement of your head. Two oval rhodolite garnets weigh a combined 7.0cts and bring a deep reddish tone to the presentation. Although (in this example) the edges are not entirely rounded, you do see copious curved elements. The use of gold relief features and a blackened backdrop creates a gorgeously aged look.

Byzantine Link Bracelet by Kurt Gutman 

The name Kurt Gutman needs no introduction. The artisan specializes in 14k yellow gold artistry. This particular piece displays three rows of Byzantine links with breathtakingly intricate details. Choose this piece for daily wear; it may look dainty but is solid all the way through. By the way, finding a Gutman piece is rare; do not let this deal pass you by.

At Peter Suchy Jewelers we are experts in all types of vintage, estate and antique jewelry. We hope you’ll stop by our showroom located at 1137 High Ridge Road in Stamford Connecticut.

Or, hop on over to our top-rated BigCommerce Store where you’ll find all the vintage Byzantine style gemstone jewelry you see here. If you find a listing has ended, please email us at info@petersuchyjewelers.com as we may still have the item in stock.

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