Simple in design yet very attractive, the shape of these earrings narrows at the clasp then widens gradually on both sides towards the center. The thickness varies slightly in each, and the clasps are reversed. Ornamentation in Roman times, particularly during .the imperial period, could be quite lavish for both men and women living in the provinces, as well as in Rome. However, unlike today, gold and silver jewelry was fairly restricted to the wealthy classes, and the lady who owned these lovely earrings was most likely from a prominent home. Fine jewelry was often passed from mother to daughter as wedding gifts or inheritance. It is easy to imagine that the person(s) who wore this pair must have done so with pride.