Silvered Metal Salamander Ring. Northern Europe, 16th / 17th Century.

A silvered metal salamander ring.

Northern Europe, 16th / 17th century.

Ring size R 1/2 UK / 8.75 US / 59 EU.

Weighs 10 grams.

Salamanders were once believed to have the ability to withstand fire, making them symbols of immortality, rebirth, and passion. In Renaissance courtly etiquette, the gift of a jewel with a salamander would have symbolised a suitors burning desire.

Salamanders hibernate in dark, damp places like piles of rotting wood and logs. When these logs were thrown into a fire, salamanders would appear as if emerging from the flames. Benvenuto Cellini (c. 1500–1571) famously recounted witnessing such an event as a child in his autobiography.

The salamander was also adopted as a symbol by King Francis I of France (reigned c. 1515–1547) for his livery.