Alexander era carved volcano stone with Macedonian general or Alexander himself! Found in Susa in Iran
It is a piece of oval shaped stone that we made a necklace with frame and chain.
It most likely belongs to the era that Alexander the Great invaded Persia and made Susa his capital
Inherited
Maybe
Dear Pejman,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
The presented object appears to be a late Hellenistic intaglio gemstone carving of the 2nd or 1st century BC. The intaglio depicts the head of a warrior with a Hellenistic helmet and a spear. It is possible that here a general of Alexander the Great himself was meant with this depiction. The golden parts of the mounting and the chain is a modern addition. An exact gemological definition of the stone is not possible but it could be a volcanic mineral related to obsidian or a black variety of Jasper stone.
This piece is in good condition and there is no serious damage visible in the images provided.
A fair market estimation would be between 800 to 1500 USD.
This estimate is based on actual recent past recorded auction sales of comparable items. Retail "asking prices" can be higher and may vary.
With kind regards,
Georg
Dear Pejman,
There are many depictions of Alexander the Great which follow a different iconography. This would not change the value.
With kind regards,
Georg
Thank you for your valuable information. What if this piece is unique and is Alexander the Great himself . What would be the worth then?