Please note that this riThis rather unassuming little ring likely has some wonderful stories to tell. It was made in the late Medieval period to the early Renaissance, somewhere in the 13th to 15th Century. It is made from a high alloy gold ring shank, which consists of two gold threads twisted together. The simple 'tard mold' setting at the front is set with a small garnet. This stone was faceted in a simple fashion, likely by tumbling the stone with an abrasive material, which creates a cabochon-like look.
These rings are now often referred to as 'penny rings' because they were likely not the most expensive rings to purchase at the time of their making. They were not worn as a wedding ring or love token, but because the wearer wanted to wear this garnet as a form of amulet.
In Medieval times, people believed gemstones to possess special powers. Even though lapidaries were not able to facet gemstones like we are used to now, and most gems were rather dull to look at, they were sought after and priced for these properties.
Garnets have been used in jewellery since at least the Bronze age. They were valued in Medieval Europe as a talisman for protection both by warriors going into battle and those who wanted to ward off pestilence and plague. They were believed to be able to 'glow from within' and to guide their wearer if he would ever caught himself in a terrible storm.
In Persia, were considered a talisman from nature's forces like storm and lightning. People believed that garnet could signal approaching danger by turning pale. Therefore, we can fantasize that its original owner was maybe a traveler, who wanted some protection as he wandered far away from home.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: US 5.25 / UK K 1/2 / circumference 50 mm.
I would advise not to size this ring.
Weight: 3.43 grams.
Age: 13th to early 16th Century.
Material and hallmarks: The ring carries no hallmarks but has been acid tested as being around 21k gold.
Condition: The ring is in good antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with its age. The garnet is not completely flush in its setting but sits secure: I suspect that this is caused due to the irregular shape of the garnet.
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