Engraved gems. From antiquity to the present. Histoire gazes at the sea through

gazes at the sea through the darkness

and the threat of the Visigoths weighed increasingly heavily on Italy

celui de l’or

and glassware)

Engraved gems. From antiquity to the present. Histoire gazes at the sea throughPALMA 14. Many are no larger than a fingertip. They are engraved with symbols, magic spells and images of gods, animals and emperors. These stones were used for various purposes. The earliest ones served as seals for making impressions in soft materials. Later engraved gems were worn or carried as personal ornaments usually rings, but sometimes talismans or amulets. The exquisite engraved designs were thought to imbue the gems with special powers. For