This 22k gold vintage pendant features a green chalcedony intaglio carved with the image Zoroaster. The gold has beautiful granulation in the style of Etruscan Revival, and the intaglio is bezel set into the pendant and presents itself as a tiny framed plaque. The intaglio is nicely carved—Zoroaster stands in profile with his wings folded behind him and a staff in front of him. There’s a crescent moon in the sky above. The chalcedony is the same turquoise green as the Caspian Sea, a perfect compliment to the glow of the high karat gold.
Zoroastrianism is one of the world’s oldest religions, based on the teachings of the prophet Zoroaster. The teachings are centered around the importance of “good thoughts, good words, good deeds” and the religion predicts the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It dates back to 6th century BCE, with its roots dating back even farther to as early as 2nd millennium BCE. It is said to have influenced the roots of Judaism and Christianity.
The pendant measures 3/4” x 1/2” x 1/8”, not including the 5 mm bail. It weighs 3.9 grams. The pendant is marked as 750 gold, but actually acid tests to be 22k.
