Classical Bulgari curblink chain set with three ancient silver coins.
Each bezel engraved and fully hallmarked – (star)55ROMA, 750, Made in Italy and signed BVLGARI
The bezels measure approx. 19,3mm and the chains is approx. 8,5mm wide and 20cm long.
Gross weight: 78,9 grams.
The coins: Fam Porcia 125a.c. / Fam Procilia 80 a.C / Fam Caecilia130 a.c
- Fam Porcia 125a.c. (M Porcius Laeca. 125 BC. Denarius. Helmeted head of Roma right, LAECA behind / Libertas in quadriga, crowned by Victory)
- Fam Procilia 80 a.C (L. Procilius. 80 BC. AR Denarius Laureate head of Jupiter right, SC behind.L PROCILI F, Juno Sospita advancing right, hurling spear and holding shield decorated with thunderbolt; serpent to right.)
- Fam Caecilia130 a.c Helmeted head of Roma right; below the chin, value mark (XVI). “Quintus Metellus”, Reverse: Jupiter in a quadriga passing at a walk to the right, holding a palm branch in his right hand, a thunderbolt and the reins in his left. “Roma”
Bvlgari Monete – not only an interesting look, but they also show cultural heritage and are interesting conversation pieces due to the incredible history behind each piece. We just Adore the style!
It remains one of Bulgari’s most successful lines and is represented in the Bulgaris Heritage Collection and exhibited at their museum.
Vintage Monete are passionately sought after and have in recent years had a surge in demand.
Coins were not just forged as a means for trade transactions, but the images appearing on them could be symbols of power, sometimes symbolic talismans, and could manifest alliances between countries or families. Using antique coins in jewelry was not a new thing. The Roman nobility during Antiquity already did it, the style then had a revival during the 19th century, in particular with Roman jewelers like Castellani. The Bulgari family knew well this story, as some of the 19th century jewels were collected by Nicola Bulgari, as much as antique coins. He indeed wanted to be an archaeologist, so his fascination for the past was strong.
Bulgari’s Monete collection is flush with cultural currency. – “Reaching back through the centuries, Bulgari honors antiquity with Monete. Revering the artistic coins of yore. Bulgari contrasts them with the brilliance of its modern style.” Like a rare gem of inestimable historical value this ancient Roman coin has found a new life as precious jewel. The use of rare coins reflected Bulgari’s commitment to honoring history—any irregularities or signs of wear were preserved.
Monete pieces date back to the 1960s, when Rome was the epicenter of glamour the so called “La Dolce Vita” era. During this time Bulgari began to make Monete a feature of the house’s narrative. Evoking Bulgari’s artisanal craftsmanship, avant-garde materials and unrivalled design as a stylish way to reference the family’s Greek and Roman roots. As rare as precious stones, ancient coins, sourced from antiquarians and auction houses, are referred to as “gemme nummarie” (nummary gems) and straddle centuries of history.
Both Grace Kelly and Elisabeth Taylor are among the women who wore Bulgari’s Monete jewelry.
