Medieval silver ring set with a magical jet gemstone

Code: 11724

This is a charming medieval silver finger ring, dating to the 15th - 16th century AD. This ring is set with a pointed jet gemstone, within a cusped bezel. The band of the ring is of 'D' section.

During the medieval period Jet was considered very magical and according to the Peterborough Lapidary (late 15th century English treatise on the 'Virtues' of stones and gems). It was said "that this stone is black, shining, light and plain, and he is of many virtues; and when he is chafed by rubbing or polishing it draws to him the straws that are around him; and it burns in water, and it is good for him to bear him who swelling in the skin or flesh as a man who is affected by the glanders. The power of him, washed in a little water, cleanses a mans teeth and makes them fast. When a man burns it and he has the gout, as soon as soon as he senses the odour and the smell thereof the gout goes away. Also whoever bears this stone around his neck , there will no serpent do him harm" As such this ring whould have been thought of as a magical and protective jewel. It has survived to us intact and wearable. 

OBJECT: Finger Ring

CULTURE: Medieval

DATE: c. 15th - 16th century A.D.

MATERIAL: Silver & Jet

RING SIZE:   10 1/2   (US)      U 1/2   (UK)

SIZE: 34mm x 25mm x 3mm (bezel 13mm x 12mm x 12mm)

WEIGHT: 3.48 grams

PROVENANCE: Formerly in a private collection, Cambridge. United Kingdom.