Medieval Silver Gilt Diamond Shaped Bezel Finger Ring

Code: 10355

This is an unusual medieval silver-gilt finger ring, dating to the 15th century A.D. The bezel is shaped as a pointcut diamond, with the shoulders and shank decorated with crosses and grooves. The diamond-shaped bezel would have originally been partial-gilt, this would have contrasted with the gold-gilt shank, making the diamond appear natural whilst being worn. Diamond rings became fashionable during the late 14th century, being gifted as wedding rings from the 15th. The decorative design on this ring would suggest a date of the late 15th - early 16th century (a similar decorated band has been recorded on a finger ring found in Wiltshire 'WILT-CFDBC2'). Today this medieval ring has survived in excellent condition, however, the gilding has mostly worn in places. This ring is suitable to be worn again today, with care!

OBJECT: Finger Ring

CULTURE: Medieval

DATE: c. 15th - 16th century A.D.

MATERIAL: Silver-gilt

RING SIZE:    9   (US)     R 3/4   (UK)

SIZE: 25.22 x 22.15mm x 4.68mm (bezel 4.45mm x 4mm x 4.17mm)

WEIGHT:  3.6 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. Private Collection, Wiltshire.