The centerpiece of this necklace is a monetary weight (coin weight) from the former Republic of Genoa in Italy. These brass weights were used by merchants, bankers, and money changers to verify that gold coins had not been clipped or worn below their legal weight. The inscription "DOPPIA GENOVA" refers to the Genoese gold Doppia, a high-value gold coin. The coin weights are considerably scarcer than the coin itself because they were working tools rather than money.
The Republic of Genoa was a medieval and early modern maritime republic from the years 1099 to 1797 in Liguria on the northwestern Italian coast. During the Late Middle Ages, it was a major commercial power in both the Mediterranean and Black Sea. Between the 16th and 17th centuries, it was one of the major financial centers of Europe. . Known for its naval prowess, trade networks, and strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea, Genoa played a significant role in European history. The griffins featured on the coin weight are symbolic creatures often associated with strength, courage, and protection, which may reflect the values and aspirations of the city-state.
The obverse design features a Genoese coat of arms supported by griffins with the legend "DOPPIA GENOVA". The reverse is plain and shows showing filing marks from the calibration of the weight.
The modern setting is 14 kt gold, quite a lot of it. Strung with modern faceted citrine and gold-filled beads. Length: 18"