This modern custom-made 14K gold ring features a rare Ottoman-era carnelian intaglio seal, dating to the 17th century (circa 1650).
The octagonal carnelian is finely engraved with the Cross of Jerusalem (also known as the Crusader’s Cross), consisting of a large central cross potent surrounded by four smaller Greek crosses. This emblem was historically used as the coat of arms of the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem (1099–1291). The cross is flanked by engraved palm and laurel branches, and surmounted by a mirror-image Hebrew inscription reading “Jerusalem.”
The octagonal form of the intaglio is characteristic of early Ottoman personal seals, and the stylistic and iconographic features suggest that the seal was engraved in Jerusalem during the period of Turkish Ottoman rule. Given the Christian symbolism and Hebrew inscription, it is highly probable that the seal was originally set in a ring acquired by a pilgrim visiting the Holy Land.
The modern gold mounting has been designed to preserve this historically significant artifact, creating a unique fusion of 17th century Near Eastern craftsmanship and contemporary jewelry design.
The carnelian intaglio measures 14 x 12 mm (9/16 x 1/2 in.)
Weight is 14.04 grams
Ring size 8 (18 mm) resizable
