Near East/Holy Land, Byzantine Empire, ca. 5th to 7th century CE. A gorgeous gold ring with a Byzantine garnet cabochon intaglio presenting leaves or feathers. The gold shank is comprised of 83% gold, equivalent to ~20K. US ring size: 3.5. Cabochon intaglio measures .375" L x .3" W (1 cm x 0.8 cm). Total weight: 5.5 grams.
Interestingly, the Byzantine Emperor Justinian established laws (later called the Justinian Code) that among other things regulated the wearing of jewelry. He stated that sapphires, pearls, and emeralds were reserved for the emperor; however, every free man was actually entitled to wear a gold ring. This suggests widespread popularity of jewelry. After all, such a law would not have been necessary if jewelry had been a strictly aristocratic luxury. Indeed, wealth abounded in the Byzantine Empire. There were gold mines within its borders, and its geographical location was ideal for trade between the East and the West. Individuals including military officers, traders, and high officials reporting to the emperor would all have been able to afford luxurious jewelry like this ring. Given the size of this ring, it was likely intended for a pinky finger.
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection
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#144247
Condition
Minor scuffs/nicks to the gold setting. Traces of deposits and only one or two nearly invisible scuffs to the garnet cabochon intaglio. Carved imagery is vivid.