Astrological gems are engraved gemstones carrying zodiacal or celestial imagery. Originating in Rome during the late Republic and flourishing in the Imperial period, they served both personal and political purposes: their designs could function as protective symbols, personal identifiers, or even as tools of propaganda. In particular, Roman elites and rulers used these gems to associate themselves with divine favour, cosmic order, and imperial legitimacy.

This corpus of astrological gems is in preparation by Fabio Spadini (Fribourg – Berlin), click HERE to browse the pieces.