circa 200 AD
This impressive Roman ring is crafted from solid gold of approximately 21.28 karats and features broad, tapering shoulders – a form popular in the early 3rd century AD (see Rings of the Ancient World by Jeffrey Spier and Jack Ogden). Set into the bezel is a finely engraved garnet intaglio depicting a gracefully modeled peacock.
In antiquity, the peacock was a powerful symbol of eternity and regeneration, and it was sacred to the Roman goddess Juno (Hera in Greek mythology). The motif appears frequently on Roman Imperial coinage, particularly in the second half of the 2nd century and early 3rd century AD. Stylistically, the peacock on this intaglio bears a strong resemblance to those depicted on coins from this period.
The artistic quality of the engraving is exceptional – far superior to most Roman-era gemstone carvings. The precision and elegance of the work suggest it may have been executed by a highly skilled artisan, possibly a trained coin die cutter.
The intaglio measures 11 x 7 mm (7/16 x 5/16 in.)
Metal analysis: 88.68% gold, 9.65% silver, 1.67% copper.
Weight is 14.52 grams
Width is 10 mm (3/8 in.)
The ring is currently a size 10.5 and can be resized several sizes up or approximately 1 to 1.5 sizes down.
