Jewel of The Month - January 2025

A Georgian 18ct gold necklace that pays homage to the gods of ancient Greece has been chosen by Hancocks London to be its first jewel of the month for 2025

At the heart of the necklace sits Zeus, king of the gods, his commanding presence reflected in the largest cameo. The design unfolds symmetrically, with the remaining gods depicted in intricate detail. Demeter, goddess of the harvest, and Hestia, goddess of the hearth, flank Zeus on one side, while Apollo, the sun god, and Poseidon, ruler of the seas, mirror them on the other. The sequence continues with Ares, Artemis (whose cameo conceals the hidden clasp), Athena, Hephaestus, Hermes, Hera, and Aphrodite, culminating in a complete portrait of the twelve Olympians.

Each cameo is framed in 18ct yellow gold, adorned with fine grain-set detailing, and interspersed with turquoise cabochons surrounded by delicate gold wirework. The balance of materials—lustrous onyx, vibrant turquoise, and rich gold— enhances the necklace with an opulent yet timeless allure.

Amy Burton, Creative Director, Hancocks London, says: "“This necklace is more than an accessory; it is a tangible narrative of ancient myth, a wearable work of art that invites the wearer to embody the grandeur and mystery of the Greek gods."

Its thoughtful craftsmanship and mythological references make it a true collector’s piece. Ancient history captivates imaginations as much now as it has ever done and this combination makes this a truly one-of-a-kind jewel.