Sterling Silver Raven Pendant, Antique Heraldic Button, Motivational Bird Jewelry, Goth Style Necklace

This heraldic button pendant carries a raven and a motto: Nihil Alienum: "Nothing human is alien to me." A beautiful motto of respect: love your neighbor, the man or woman down (or in) the street. We share the world, no matter our gender, race, or economic backgrounds. It's a phrase worth wearing.

The words come from Terence, a playwright of ancient Rome whose full name was Publius Terentius Afer. Born in North Africa and brought to Rome as an enslaved person, he was educated by a Roman senator, and eventually freed. Terence wrote six comedies, and his language was described by contemporaries as clear and entertaining. While he died young, around age 25, his works survived him by two thousand years and became standard curriculum through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the Neoclassical period. Martin Luther quoted him. Shakespeare and Moliere referenced him. The motto endures because it's true.

The raven is a fitting choice for this design. Ravens are symbols of knowledge and intelligence, apt companions for a phrase about the scope of human understanding.

The pendant is cast from an antique livery button. These buttons were worn in the 18th and 19th centuries by soldiers, household staff, and royal servants, each one bearing the crest or insignia of the family they served. The back of this pendant retains its original foundry mark: Armfield, Birmingham.

Cast in sterling silver, hallmarked Blue Piranha, and stamped .925. The pendant measures 1½ inches (3.8 cm) long. The circle is 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, roughly the size of a U.S. quarter. Weight is 8.5 grams.

Each pendant is available without a chain. If you would like to add a chain, several lengths and styles are available. Please indicate your preference at checkout. Every chain includes an extender and adjusts two inches longer than its stated length, so a 16" chain adjusts to 18". Chains are lightly oxidized to match the patina of the pendant.

Your purchase arrives gift boxed, presented in a soft pouch with a story card.

Good for: a gift for the reader, the historian, the person who collects things that say something. A birthday present for someone who values words. A meaningful graduation gift. Self-purchase for the woman or man who means it.

Questions? Please message me. I'm happy to help.