This unique sterling silver necklace features a helmeted Athena on one side Alexander the Great on the reverse. The traditional Greek Key Motif, also known as the Meander or eternity symbol borders the central charm, which hangs from a Leather Cord. The necklace is fastened with a standard lobster clasp.
The necklace is Rhodium (Platinum) plated. Rhodium is a precious metal, a member of the platinum family. Rhodium electroplating is used on jewelry in order to provide a surface that will resist scratches and tarnish while giving it a white and reflective appearance.
Sterling Silver (925 Stamp), Platinum Plated, Leather Cord
Made in Greece
Approx. 33mm (1.3 in) diameter
Approx. 520mm (20.47 in) length
Measurement includes extension chain.
(Photos are not actual size)
History
In art and architecture, a meander is a decorative border constructed from a continuous line, shaped into a repeated motif. Such a design is also called the Greek Fret or Greek Key design, although these are modern words. The name "meander" recalls the twisting and turning path of the Maeander River. Meanders were among the most important symbols in ancient Greece; they, perhaps, symbolized infinity and unity; many ancient Greek temples incorporated the sign of the meander.
Pallas Athena was second to Zeus in wisdom. Athena Goddess was the patroness of Athens and all the heroes who fought against evil. Athena Pallas loved peace more than war and was also known as Goddess Athena of agriculture, and spinning and weaving.
Alexander was one of the most successful military commanders of all time and it is presumed that he was undefeated in battle. By the time of his death, he had conquered the Achaemenid Persian Empire, adding it to Macedon's European territories; according to some modern writers, this was much of the world then known to the ancient Greeks (the 'Ecumene'). His father, Philip, had unified most of the city-states of mainland Greece under Macedonian hegemony in the League of Corinth. As well as inheriting hegemony over the Greeks, Alexander also inherited the Greeks' long-running feud with the Achaemenid Empire of Persia. After reconfirming Macedonian rule by quashing a rebellion of southern Greek city-states, Alexander launched a short but successful campaign against Macedon's northern neighbours. He was then able to turn his attention towards the east and the Persians. In a series of campaigns lasting 10 years, Alexander's armies repeatedly defeated the Persians in battle, in the process conquering the entirety of the Empire. He then, following his desire to reach the 'ends of the world and the Great Outer Sea', invaded India, but was eventually forced to turn back by the near-mutiny of his troops.