Ancient Roman silver and rock crystal finger ring

Code: 11549

This is an ancient Roman silver finger ring, dating to the 2nd century A.D. It is classified as a Henig type II. The ring is set with the original rock crystal gem of a polished cabochon. The Roman naturalist Pliny, believed rock crystal to come from the snow as a form of ice turned to stone. It was thought to protect against kidney ailments and other diseases and was highly esteemed. The ring is intact and in excavated condition with an untouched patina.  

OBJECT: Finger Ring

CULTURE: Roman

DATE: c. 2nd century A.D.

MATERIAL: Silver & rock crystal

RING SIZE:    5  (US)     J 1/2  (UK)

SIZE: 19mm x 19mm x 4mm x 10mm (gem 9mm dia x 5mm) 

WEIGHT:  4.02 grams

PROVENANCE: Formerly in a private collection, London.