Medieval Gold & Garnet Gemstone Finger Ring

Code: 10188

This is a wonderful medieval gold finger ring, dating to the 13th - 14th century. The ring has a simple pie-crust bezel, set with a dark red garnet gemstone. The edge of the bezel rubbed over the stone, that appears to have dropped slightly due to the foiling deteriorating in the ground. The stone seems stable, not loose so can still be worn with care. This type of ring was in fashion from the 12th century, the main emphasis to focus the eye on the gemstone, rather than on an elaborately decorated bezel (as with later pieces). The simplicity of design reflects the pious period of its birth, a time of Crusades, plague and great social change. During the medieval period, it was widely believed that gemstones had powers that could affect the wearer. At the time it was believed that garnet could cure depression and relieve diseases of the liver! 

OBJECT: Finger Ring

CULTURE: Medieval

DATE: c. 1250 - 1350 A.D.

MATERIAL: Gold & Garnet

RING SIZE: 7 1/2  (US)   P (UK)

SIZE: 22.09mm x 19.24mm x 1.52mm (bezel 7.34mm x 6.19mm x 3.54mm)

WEIGHT: 1.4g

PROVENANCE: Ex. European Private Collection