Fortuna Amulet with Ancient Intaglio
This ancient Roman intaglio, carved between the first and third centuries CE, portrays Fortuna and her cornucopia with the poise that made her one of the most widely revered figures in the Roman world. As the goddess of chance, prosperity and the shifting patterns of fate, she appeared throughout antiquity in carvings like this intaglio. Historical texts describe citizens visiting her temples before major decisions and seeking clarity in moments when outcomes felt uncertain. This intaglio may once have served as a personal talisman, a companion in times that demanded courage and trust in the unknown.
Designing a modern setting for this relic demanded reverence, but also whimsy. The engraving carries its own presence - the marks of the artisan who carved it nearly two thousand years ago remain crisp, and the image of Fortuna still feels purposeful and powerful. Our work was to create a beautiful structure that honors this past, using 18k gold, diamonds and sapphires to echo the importance the Romans placed on this symbolic object.
We invite the wearer to think about continuity and the persistence of time, to consider how uncertainty and hope have shaped lives across centuries. We can only wonder who first commissioned the carving, what decisions or journeys it accompanied and how it finally found its way here. Its next chapter will depend on the person who chooses it, someone who recognizes that jewelry can hold stories far older than any of us.
- Ancient hand carved Roman carnelian intaglio of Fortuna
- Circa 100-300 CE
- Docujewel: 38863.15
- Intaglio measures 15.78 x 9.75 x 2.77mm
- 18k premium recycled gold
- 0.31 carats natural, round brilliant diamonds
- 0.56 carats natural, round Ceylon sapphires
- Mix of worn matte & polished finish
- 24 inch nugget chain, handcrafted in Los Angeles
This pendant is designed and handcrafted in our Boulder studio using ethically sourced diamonds & premium recycled gold.
Any item not currently in stock will ship approximately 4-6 weeks after the receipt of your order. We will confirm an estimated ship date as we near completion of your piece. Contact us for any special requests.