Roman Gold Ring with Teardrop Garnet

$3,601.58

A stunning, flat-section gold ring from ancient Rome. It features a hoop of leaf-shaped plaques, keeled ivy leaf shoulders, and a teardrop cell with inset of garnet cabochon.

Internal diameter 2.3 cm. UK ring size G.

 

Date: Circa 4th Century AD
Provenance: From the collection of a Cambridge gentleman.
Condition: Very fine condition.

SOLD

SKU: EH-066 Category: Tag:

The ancient Romans considered jewellery to be an essential accessory, for it provided a public display of their wealth. Roman jewellery at first followed trends set by the Etruscans, using gold and glass beads, but as the power and spread of the Roman Empire increased, so too did jewellery designs became increasingly elaborate. Different cultural styles from Greece, Egypt, North Africa, and the Orient were all incorporated to reflect Rome’s prosperity as a dominant, conquering city. The wide range of natural resources enabled artisans to create ostentatious jewellery using a diverse selection of materials: this increasingly included sapphires, diamonds, emeralds, garnet and amber from India, and pearls (which were particularly prized). Archaeological finds of Roman jewellery are relatively rare, considering the magnitude of Roman civilisation, and the historical and geographical span of the Empire.

The custom of wearing rings was popular amongst the Romans, and was probably introduced by the Sabines, who are described in early legends as wearing gold rings with precious stones. During the Roman Republic it became customary for all the senators, chief magistrates, and at last for the equites also, to wear gold rings.

In Greek and Roman mythology, Hades gave pomegranate seeds to Persephone as a token of safety. Pomegranate seeds were often associated with the garnet stone, which became a typical gift given upon departure for travel. When given in this context, the garnet stone was believed to grant a quick and safe return, and to eradicate the emotional distance between separated lovers.

Weight 8.68 g
Dimensions L 2.3 x W 2.3 cm
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Semi-Precious Stones

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