Roman Chalcedony Facing Bust Phalera. 3rd century AD. A carved chalcedony phalera formed as a head with lentoid eyes, small pursed lips, full cheeks, fleshy chin and curly hair.See D'Amato, R., and Sumner, G., Arms and Armour of the Imperial Roman Soldier From Marius to Commodus, 112 BC-192 AD, London, 2009, for discussion of the various contexts of phalerae; see D'Amato, R., Roman Centurions 31 BC-AD 500 The Classical and Late Empire, Oxford, 2012, p.43, for two comparable chalcedony examples.14.9 grams, 34mm (1 1/4"). From the collection of a deceased London, UK, gentleman; 1970-1999.Likely used in a military context as a decorative element in breast armour.