A Gem of a find
A collection of 88 engraved gemstones of first to early third century date were found during the excavation of the baths at Caerlon .
This is one of the largest single deposits to have been found anywhere throughout the entire Roman Empire and they were found in the sediments of the large drain below the cold hall of the baths
They include:
- Gem engraved with the god Mercury. He is shown holding the heralds wand with a head of entwined snakes (caduceus) and a money bag, which are his attributes. As the god of wealth he was a very popular charm.
- The goddess Roma. Made of Cornelian in the Second century AD. Symbolising in human form the city of Rome
- Cresent Moon and Stars. Made of Citrine in the Second or third century AD. These astrological symbols suggest the notion of eternity.
- The warrior goddess Minerva. Made of Nicolo in the first century AD. Minerva was protectress of soldiers and had powers of healing.
- Eagle devouring a hare made in red jasper in the second or third century AD. The imagery is military; the eagle signifying the imperial legions, is all powerful and vanquishes all before it.
Author David Standing
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