A guardian of treasures: The griffin, a strange and legendary hybrid creature, is usually represented as part eagle and part lion, and is commonly known for guarding treasures. The griffin motif is found in sculptures of the ancient Babylonians, Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans; in beast allegories of the early Christians; and in Gothic architecture of the late Middle Ages. The griffin remains common in heraldry, representing strength and vigilance.

A hybrid is a composite of two or more species of animal and/or human, and the seven most well-known hybrids are:

• The centaur: In Greek mythology and art, the centaur has the torso of a human combined with the body of a horse.
• The cockatrice: This creature, also known as a basilisk ("king of serpents"), could kill with just a glance; the cockatrice was composed of a dragon's tail and assorted poultry parts.
• The giants (gigantes): These fierce and frightening beings were the offspring of Gaia (the Earth).
• The griffin: According to myth, the griffin was a creature with the body of a lion attached to the head, wings, and claws of an eagle.
• The harpy: Harpies had female torsos melded with vulture parts; the name harpy is derived from the Greek word meaning "snatcher".
• The satyrs (faun): Satyrs, often companions of Dionysos, were depicted in myth and art with the legs of goats and bestial natures.
• The sirens: Women with bird-like bodies; sirens were legendary for luring sailors by singing their enchanted songs.

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Visit our antique jewelry glossary for a more comprehensive explanation on griffins or click here to get to the descriptive page of this jewel.