Ancient Roman Silver Intaglio Ring of Mercury

Code: 11018

This is an ancient Roman silver intaglio ring, dating to the 3rd century A.D. The ring is set with the original intaglio depicting the god Mercury (Hermes) holding a purse/bag of money. The gemstone appears to be a red jasper, however, the ring may have been involved in a fire at some point and this has turned the gemstone dark brown. It is intact and in excavated condition and still wearable!

OBJECT: Intaglio Ring

CULTURE: Roman

DATE: c. 3rd century A.D.

MATERIAL: Silver & Jasper 

RING SIZE:   6 3/4  (US)     N 1/2   (UK)

SIZE: 22mm x 26mm x 13mm x 4mm (intaglio 13mm x 9mm) 

WEIGHT:  10.50 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. European private collection, Vienna (Austria).