You might not believe it but this particular ring was manufactured around 2000 years ago. The oval jasper intaglio set into this ring depicts a left facing lion which is accentuated with a resplendent mane that dates to 100-300 AD. This ancient intaglio has been mounted in a 'D' shaped high carat gold mount, between 20 and 22 karat, which is most likely from the same period as the intaglio. The tiny ring would have been a valuable object during the Roman period not only for its intrinsic value but with knowledge that a lion was the king of beasts and has attributes such as power, strength and sovereignty, emblematic of imperial authority and military prowess. The ring is a very small size, approximately a 48/I and our recommendation would be not to resize the piece for a larger ring size, to keep it as authentic as possible. In the second modelled image you can see we have paired it with a fine chain to wear the ring as a pendant for those who are unable to wear the piece on their finger. An exceptional piece of Roman jewellery which has stood the test of time.
Ring size - 48/I (approximately)
Marked - unmarked however XRF tests as approximately 22 karat gold
Total weight of piece - 2.7 grams
Independent certificate accompanies the ring by Apollo Galleries London.
NB. The modelled image shows the ring worn on a chain which is not included with the listing.