Code: 12856
This is a rather charming medieval gold finger ring, dating to the 12th - 13th century AD. It bears a turreted bezel set with a natural red ruby. The band of the ring is inscribed with a form of magical text as yet to be translated. Such rings were often given as gifts between lovers, often with hidden messages in Anglo-Norman script (See "The Beautiful Game Courtly Love Posies in Anglo-Norman Inscribed on Jewellery and Seals" by Malcolm Jones 2024). In medieval times, rubies were highly valued and imbued with various symbolic meanings, most notably representing love, passion, courage, and protection.
The text appears to read as +IES VI.ICIEISIVS AMI X AMI VICSAMIE or similar cut on both sides of the band,
This example is intact; the ruby appears original, and due to wear, it has shifted from its original position in the bezel. The ruby remains solid and unmoving, so it can still be worn with care.
OBJECT: Magical Inscribed Ring
CULTURE: Medieval
DATE: c. 1180 - 1280 A.D.
MATERIAL: Gold & Ruby
RING SIZE: 6 3/4 (US) N 1/2 (UK)
SIZE: 21mm x 18mm x 1.3mm
WEIGHT: 1.29 grams
PROVENANCE: Formerly in the Wright Collection, Northants.
