gems, ancient jewelry, gold, Greek

This paper presents a comprehensive technological study of an earring of eastern Mediterranean type, likely dating to the seventh century BC. The examination was unusually thorough, as the piece came from a private collection, allowing several sections to be cut for analysis under both a metallurgical microscope and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The initial objectives were to determine the silver composition of the various components and to understand their manufacturing techniques. The next stage involved investigating how the ear-loop and pendant were joined and how the wire collar was affixed. Thirdly, the method used to secure the granulation was examined, and finally, the gilding technique and the stage at which it was applied were assessed. The nomenclature and reference letters for the various sections discussed in the report are indicated in figure 1.