Object Description
A small ornate Ancient Roman solid gold ring featuring six protruding bezels, each set with a colourful inlay. The hoop is polygonal in shape, with curved edges. A subtle, raised trapezoid pattern has been hammered into the space between each bezel, enhancing their presence in the design. The bezels feature straight walls encasing green and blue glass, a domed, banded hardstone, and red garnets. A short lip folds over the top of most inlays securing them in place. The ring is demonstrative of the increasingly elaborate jewellery in the Roman Imperial Period, the exceptional craftsmanship of ancient goldsmiths and Rome’s augmenting international authority as well.
Due to its small size, this ring was perhaps either a child’s ring, a votive piece or designed to be worn on one of the top phalanges.
Width below measures internal diameter.
Closest UK Ring Size: F 1/2
Date: Circa 3rd-4th Century AD