Byzantine empire, circa 6th century AD.
The hollow gold ring is embellished with an oval cabochon cut amethyst.
The amethyst measures 12.38 x 7.55 mm. Size of the bezel is 15 x 11 mm (5/8 x 7/16 in.)
Height of the setting and amethyst is 10 mm (3/8 in.)
Weight – 6.38 grams
Metal analysis report: 72.99% gold (just under 18K), 12.34% silver, 14.41% copper.
Ring size is 8 (18 mm). This ring can not be resized.
The ring is in excellent condition for its age. It is well made and comfortable to wear.
In early Christianity, amethyst associated with Christ. Its purple color represented purity of spirit. Amethyst was one of the most popular gemstones during the Byzantine era.