circa 1st century BC – 1st century AD
This ancient Roman solid gold ring (approximately 14.51 karat) features an oval carnelian intaglio finely engraved with goddess Minerva (Athena in Greek mythology). She is wearing a plumed helmet and is holding a spear. Minerva / Athena is looking down at an owl on her arm.
Despite its small size, the quality of engraving of this intaglio is superior to the quality of most intaglio rings of this type, given naturalistically depicted body and well detailed attire and helmet.
Metal analysis: 60.49% gold, 39.13% silver, 0.33% copper, 0.05% rubidium.
The intaglio measures 18 x 6 mm (4/8 x 1/4 in.)
Weight is 5.97 grams
Ring size is approximately 7.5 (18 mm)
