The Crotalia earrings with three pendants are a silver and metal replica of the earrings found during the excavations of Pompeii, in the villa of Oplontis and Stabia, kept at the Archaeological Museum of Naples. Made of 925 silver and plated with 18K gold, they recall the charm and beauty of the jewels worn by women of ancient Rome, particularly in the imperial period.

These earrings were among the most popular jewelry among women of the Roman elite. Their name derives from the Greek “krotalon”, which means “tinkling” or “noise”, precisely because of the light sound that the pendants produced when they moved

Characteristics

• Material: 925 silver, metal                
• Nickel free
• Weight: 7 g
• Length: 5 cm
• Diameter: 1.5 cm
• Color: Silver, Golden
• Produced in Italy 

Historical Curiosities

In Pompei, numerous examples of Crotalia style jewels were found intact during archaeological excavations, preserved under the ashes of the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. These earrings were a symbol of wealth and prestige and were worn during important social events, such as banquets and ceremonies.

Roman noblewomen highly valued this style of earrings, which not only exhibited their status, but also served as a symbol of protection and prosperity. 

Bibliography:
"Splendours. Luxury in ornaments in Herculaneum", edited by Francesco Sirano.
"Female beauty in Pompeii. Cosmetics and ornaments", edited by Antonio D'Ambrosio.
"The collections of the National Museum of Naples", edited by the Pedicini Photographic Archive.