Valentia Pendant

This striking pendant recalls the form of the tabula ansata ("tablet with handles"), the favorite form onto which Romans inscribed or painted important messages, such as names, announcements, and other information. Several of these survive today; many are of stone, while others are painted. The tabula ansata may be seen for example in the relief images of the Arch of Titus, in Rome.

We bring this form to you as a space for you to inscribe and wear your own important message or information! Our small tabula ansata may be inscribed with up to three letters in a Roman font. While initials are always a perfect choice, we also recommend choosing a number or date special to you that we may render in Roman numerals.

"Valentia" was the ancient Roman city today known as Vibo, in the south of Italy. The town had been a stronghold of the Italic tribe known as the Bruttii (Hipponium), until it was taken over by the Romans and became the colony of Valentia in 192 BC. The word "valentia" means "strength."

This pendant may be purchased along with one of our 20" Italian gold or silver chains, here.