Important: This is part of an ongoing curation in London. Delivery to India takes approximately 3–4 weeks, while international orders follow our standard shipping timelines.
This striking Roman medallion necklace from the 1980s feels remarkably contemporary, echoing the bold coin jewellery that has once again become one of the most sought-after design languages in modern luxury. Long before coin jewellery returned to the forefront of fashion through Bvlgari's celebrated Monete collections, pieces such as this embodied the enduring fascination with ancient Roman artistry. While this is not a Bvlgari piece, it captures that same timeless Roman inspiration -bold medallions, architectural proportions and an unmistakable presence that has enjoyed a remarkable revival in recent years.
What makes this example particularly exceptional is not merely the medallions themselves, but their presentation.
Rather than the shorter collar-length coin necklaces more commonly encountered, this piece extends to an impressive 76 cm, falling gracefully to the lower chest with a 38 cm drop when worn. The uninterrupted silhouette allows the necklace to command attention whether worn over knitwear, tailoring or an elegant evening dress.
The chain is equally deserving of admiration. Constructed in a beautifully engineered watch-link bracelet style, it introduces an unmistakable sense of strength and refinement. Watch-inspired links are highly collectible in their own right, and finding them combined with oversized Roman medallions in such a generous length is distinctly uncommon. It is this harmony of chain, scale and proportion that elevates the piece beyond a simple fashion necklace.
Each medallion features the profile of a Roman figure, framed within a screw-head inspired bezel - an aesthetic language that luxury jewellery houses continue to reinterpret today. The reverse reveals the beautifully finished construction of the medallions, reflecting the quality expected of well-made costume jewellery from the era.
At nearly 46 years old, the necklace remains in excellent vintage condition, preserving both its rich gold tone and its commanding presence with remarkable integrity.
Pieces such as this are becoming increasingly difficult to source. Most examples encountered today are considerably shorter, lighter or simpler in construction. The combination of the long sautoir length, substantial watch-link chain, paired Roman medallions, and excellent preservation makes this a genuinely scarce find.
It is the sort of necklace that transforms even the simplest outfit into something considered. It does not rely on gemstones or ornamentation to announce itself; its confidence lies entirely in proportion, history and design.
Styling Notes
One of the greatest strengths of this necklace is its versatility. Despite its bold presence, the elongated silhouette allows it to move effortlessly between everyday dressing and formal occasions.
- Layer it over a crisp white shirt with relaxed denim for an understated coffee-date look.
- Let it become the focal point against a simple black dress or fitted bodysuit, where the medallions command attention without competing with the outfit.
- Wear it over a flowing linen or silk maxi dress by the seaside, where its Roman-inspired design feels entirely at home against sun-kissed skin.
- Pair it with a saree or an elegant kaftan, allowing the long silhouette to beautifully complement traditional drapes while adding an unexpected contemporary edge.
- Style it over a high-neck knit or tailored blazer for an effortless day-to-evening transition.
- Equally striking for cocktail evenings, destination holidays, weddings, gallery visits, or simply elevating an everyday ensemble.
Unlike shorter medallion necklaces that tend to sit close to the neck, this rare 76 cm sautoir length creates movement and drama, making it a statement piece that remains remarkably wearable.
It is one of those rare vintage finds that feels as natural with tailoring and trainers as it does with eveningwear and heirloom silks - a testament to truly timeless design.
- c.1980s;
- Gold plated gilt metal
- In excellent vintage condition. No defect or damage. Please see close up video for quality assurance.
- Measures: 76 cm total length; 38 cm fall when worn
- Sourced from London, England.

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