Rare Ancient Roman Agate Eye in Its Original Gold Mount Stick Pin

A Large Ancient Roman Agate Eye with a Later Victorian Stick Pin

This extremely rare jewel features a large ancient Roman agate eye, preserved in its original gold mount and later fitted with a Victorian stick pin. The top measures approximately 24 × 15 millimeters (0.94 × 0.59 inches), giving the eye a bold, immediately noticeable presence.

The banded agate creates a striking resemblance to an eye: a dark central “pupil” is surrounded by a pale ring and warm brown and grayish tones. The smooth gold border follows the stone’s elongated, pointed outline, allowing its distinctive pattern and substantial size to command attention.

The ancient Roman centerpiece and original gold setting remain the focus of the jewel. Its later Victorian pin adds another chapter to its history, showing how an ancient object was adapted for a different era of personal adornment.

Collector’s Note

The original gold mount is an important part of this piece’s collecting appeal. It preserves the relationship between the ancient agate and its setting, while the Victorian pin illustrates the jewel’s later adaptation.

The eye motif evokes the wider Roman tradition of protective amulets associated with warding off the evil eye. Its Victorian adaptation can also be appreciated within the 19th-century fascination with ancient Greece and Rome. Together, these elements offer collectors a compelling connection between antiquity and the later appreciation of ancient jewelry.

Styling Note

Wear it on a tailored jacket or a substantial lapel, where the large agate eye can stand out. Cream, charcoal or brown fabrics provide an elegant backdrop for its contrasting bands and warm gold surround.

Key Features

• Centerpiece: Large ancient Roman banded agate eye
• Setting: Original ancient Roman gold mount
• Later addition: Victorian stick-pin stem
• Design: Eye-shaped outline with a distinctive concentric pattern
• Top measurements: Approximately 24 × 15 mm (0.94 × 0.59 inches)
• Jewelry type: Stick pin

Email us or give us a call: (929) 316-2746. For our shipping and refund policy please see our terms & conditions.

The DSF Promise

Buy with confidence. Every piece is backed by:

• Authenticity — examined and verified before listing

• Condition — carefully inspected and honestly described

• Insured shipping — fully insured, signature required

• 32-day returns — available on eligible, unaltered items

• Private appointments — available in New York

• Experience — over 50 years of fine jewelry expertise