Jewels

Scarce rock crystal Renaissance ring in 22 Karat gold. This 16th-century ring is setted with a table-cut rock crystal in a closed setting. The bezel is decorated with black enamel with gold highlights and double crescent motifs, ending in four prongs. The shoulders feature fine chiseling. Renaissance ring from the 16th century, Western Europe. During the Renaissance, rings evolved from the simple forms of the medieval period to miniature works of art, combining the skills of the chiseler, engraver, enameler, and stone cutter. Cabochon settings persisted, but the evolution of stone cutting allowed for the increased use of table cuts.

Ring size: 57 EU or 8 US

Bezel dimensions: 7 x 8 mm

Estimated weight of the rock crystal: 0.49 ct

Note: For examples of similar 16th-century rings, see items 334 and 430 in Scarisbrick’s “Rings; Jewellery of Power, Love and Loyalty” (2007); item AF.1743 in the British Museum collection and items 279 and 281 in the “Victoria and Albert Museum Catalogue of Rings” by Oman (1930).

Condition: normal wear consistent with age, a missing part in the setting.

Weight: 2.91 gr