Jewelery

Archaeologists have found some magnificent Ancient Greek jewellery. The Greeks were experts in gold and silver work and used enamels to give a touch of colour. Until the Hellenistic Period, coloured gemstones were not widely used except in rings. Cheap jewellery was made from bronze, iron and lead. Pins and brooches were used to fasten tunics and cloaks. Decorated metal rosettes have been found which may have been sewn on to very expensive clothes. Rings were made entirely of metal or with a carved, coloured stone. Some were in the form of signet rings. A lot of Greek women wore drop earings. Some were very elaborate and detailed. Various styles of jewelled headbands, or diadems, were born by noblewomen. Men sometimes wore a plain headband. Bracelets and armlets were often decorated with animal heads. Another popular design was the snake bracelet. Women wore many styles of delicately made necklaces and chains. At first men wore very little jewellery but later it became fashionable to wear more.