The Agamemnon Collection - 24K Gold Plated Sterling Silver Pendant - Octopus Motif (32mm)

The octopus is one of the most characteristic motifs of the “marine style”, which was invented by the Minoans and was adopted by the Mycenaeans. Minoans worshipped the sea and its creatures and this is why most of Minoan art includes sea creatures like dolphins and octopi.

The Agamemnon Collection features jewelry replicas of the many gold repoussé motif discs discovered in the Shaft Grave III of Mycenae or Argos, Greece. It was believed that these gold discs served as decorative ornaments, worn as jewelry and were attached to the clothing or shrouds of the deceased. The Shaft Grave III is also known as the "Grave of Women" due to the discovery of three females and two infants within the grave.

This 24K plated sterling silver pendant is a true replica of one of many gold repoussé motif discs discovered in the Shaft Grave III of Mycenae or Argos, Greece. It was believed that these gold discs served as decorative ornaments, worn as jewelry and were attached to the clothing or shrouds of the deceased. The Shaft Grave III is also known as the "Grave of Women" due to the discovery of three females and two infants within the grave. The reverse side of the pendant is blank. The pendant is attached to a round loop (approx. 5mm) which allows this beautiful charm to be strung on almost any chain or cord of your choice. Click on "More Pictures" to see an image of the original artifact.

Sterling Silver (925 Stamp), 24K Gold Plating
Made in Greece
Approx. 32mm (1.3 in) diameter
Approx. 43mm (1.7 in) length with silver ring
(Photos are not actual size)

Please note: European jewelry orders typically ship directly from Greece to avoid tax and custom duties.

Historical Background

Agamemnon ("very resolute") is the son of King Atreus of Mycenae and Queen Aerope, the brother of Menelaus and the husband of Clytemnestra; different mythological versions make him the king either of Mycenae or of Argos. When Helen, the wife of Menelaus, was abducted by Paris of Troy, Agamemnon was the commander of the Achaeans in the ensuing Trojan War. Upon his return home, he was murdered by his wife Clytemnestra.

Repoussé motifs are created by hammering a design on the reverse side of the metal, forming a raised design on the front.